In 1298, Jacques DeMolay, the namesake of this organization was named Grand Master of the Knights Templar, and in this position he faced trouble, since the crusades were not going as planned.
The Knights Templar, to regain strength, moved to Cyprus and reorganized, waiting for the public to clamor for another crusade. However, Philip the Fair, in 1305 wished to gain control of the Knights Templars, and to prevent an increase int he power of the church, Philip decided to take over the Knights Templars.
Starting in 1307, Jacques DeMolay, as well as others began being persecuted. Hundreds were thrown into inhumane dungeons for seven years, and on March 18, 1314, DeMolay was tried by a court. As evidence the court used a forged confession, which was disavowled by DeMolay, which at the time was punishable by death. Throughout the torture, DeMolay, as well as Guy of Auvergne, another Knight, stayed true friends until the end. DeMolay never gave up, and his legacy lives until this day.
Started in 1919 by Frank S. Land, DeMolay was formed by Dad Land and 9 young men who wanted to play baseball. Dad Land gave them a place to meet and a place to play. As the news of the group of young men spread more boys wanted to join and the group grew from there.
Now with chapters in all 50 states and in 8 countries DeMolay is the largest youth fraternity in the world.
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