<P>What secrets connect Egypt's Great Pyramids, the Freemasons, and the Council on Foreign Relations? In this astonishing book, celebrated journalist Jim Marrs examines the world's most closely guarded secrets, tracing the history of clandestine societies and the power they have wielded &ndash; from the ancient mysteries to modern&ndash;day conspiracy theories.</P><P> Searching for truth, he uncovers disturbing evidence that the real movers and shakers of the world collude covertly to start and stop wars, manipulate stock markets, maintain class distinctions, and even censor the news. Provocative and utterly compelling, <i>Rule by</i> <i>Secrecy</i> offers a singular worldview that may explain who we are, where we came from, and where we are going.</P>