Freemasonry in the United States

Freemasonry is a fraternal order that originated in Britain and later spread internationally through colonial expansion and migration. Its members, known as Freemasons, traditionally meet local groups called lodges, which historically were male-only. Freemasonry emphasizes moral development, mutual aid, and ethical conduct, often expressed through symbolic rituals. Over time, the organization has interacted with a wide range of cultures and has at times faced political and social opposition.