| Record | OBS-0685 |
|---|---|
| Category | Secret Societies/Groups |
| Status | DEBUNKED |
| Summary | A popular claim is that the Eye of Providence and pyramid on the U.S. one-dollar bill are Freemason symbols placed by the Illuminati. This is false; the symbols predate Freemasonry's use and were chosen for their Christian and patriotic meanings. |
| Origin | The claim likely arose in the 20th century as the New World Order conspiracy theory gained traction. |
| Claimed |
|
| Evidence / consensus | Historians note that the Eye of Providence and pyramid were added to the Great Seal in 1782, before Freemasonry adopted them. The symbols represent God's watchfulness and the longevity of the republic, not a Masonic conspiracy. |
Sources are external and provided for verification. Listing does not imply the Observer endorses their claims.