"Skull and Bones" is one of three super-secret societies of Yale University but its members have very public lives.

"Skull and Bones" was founded in 1832 at the University, and while countless books have been written about the group's rituals and possible agendas, very few things have really been confirmed about the society. What we do know is that their alumni list is loaded with a who's-who of power and influence in America. Let's take a look:

George H.W. Bush 

Former President George H. W. Bush Attends Building Dedication At Fort Bragg
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The Bush family Patriarch, George H.W. Bush, was our 41st President and arguably the most powerful "Bones" member of all time. Perhaps George's ability to keep valuable secrets was formed during his days at Yale as a member of "The Brotherhood of Death," as the society is also known. Keeping secrets is a skill set he would need in his roles as CIA director, Vice President and eventually President of the United States.

It's also worth noting that Bush's link with "Skull and Bones" is not his only connection to intriguing mysteries. Bush was photographed in Dallas on November 22nd 1963, which is the day President Kennedy was assassinated. Despite the photos, however, Bush has said on record many times he does not remember where he was that day.

George W. Bush 

Former U.S. Presidents George W. Bush And Bill Clinton Attend Graduation Ceremony Of The 2017 Presidential Leadership Scholars Class
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Son of George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush was a "Bones" member who went on to become the 43rd President. G.W. was also once a part-owner of the Texas Rangers. He's kept his college secrets close to the vest, avoiding any questions about the society for years.

John Kerry

US Secretary Of State John Kerry Attends Global Table Food Innovation Conference
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"Bones" member John Kerry ran for President and fell short, losing to George W. Bush. Kerry has also avoided questions about being a "Bonesman," but did not avoid power. Kerry was an influential Senator and one-time Secretary of State. You might remember a guy who became a viral internet sensation, we called him The "Don't Tase Me Bro" guy. He was tasered after asking a question about "Skull and Bones" to John Kerry at a speaking engagement in 2007.

William Howard Taft 

Wilson's Inauguration
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Taft, pictured on the right, was the 27th President of the United States and a member of "Skull and Bones" while attending Yale University in the 1870s. Taft also served as Secretary of War and Solicitor General. Taft returned to Yale after his Presidency and served as Kent Professor of Law and Legal History.

Google Street View
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This is "Skull and Bones Tomb." It's the "Skull and Bones" headquarters, it was built in 1856 and is still there today on High Street in New Haven. In fact, I took this photo right off of Google Street View. What's happened behind those doors for the last 163 years? Only the members can know for sure. What is certain, is that many of those members went on to become some of the most powerful people in the world.

Other members include:

  • Paul Giamatti - Actor
  • Walter Camp - "The Father of American Football"
  • Stephen A. Schrwarzman - CEO Blackstone Group

On the next episode of secret societies that exist in Connecticut at Yale, I'll tell you about "Scroll and Key." That's there headquarters, pictured below.

Google Street View
Google Street View
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