Illuminati in popular culture

Founded by Adam Weishaupt in Bavaria in 1776, the Illuminati have been referred to in popular culture, in books and comics, television and films, and games.

A number of novelists, playwrights and composers are alleged to have been Illuminati members and to have reflected this in their work.

The methods and motives of the conspiracy, and its relation to the Bavarian order, are matters of speculation that change with each telling.

Some artists, such as Jay-Z, Taylor Swift and Kanye West, are believed to be agents of the conspiracy who leave hints to their listeners through lyrics, Eye of Providence handsigns or other signals.

Milton William Cooper's Behold a Pale Horse is one such work that both Nas and Public Enemy have made reference to.