America’s political history is replete with vibrant personalities. Yet, few realize that some of these figures had an intriguing side-interest: the occult. Let’s delve into some of these enigmatic politicians and their mystical pursuits.

Nancy Reagan

The First Lady was known for consulting astrologers, especially after the assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan. Astrologer Joan Quigley played a notable role in helping Nancy plan the president’s schedule during certain periods of his tenure.

Abraham Lincoln

The 16th president of the U.S., Lincoln reportedly had prophetic dreams and was known to consult spiritual mediums, possibly fueled by his grief over the death of his son Willie. His wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, famously held séances in the White House.

John F. Kennedy

Though not directly engaged with the occult, JFK had an intriguing relationship with Jeane Dixon, a psychic who made several predictions about his life, including an ominous one concerning his trip to Dallas in 1963.

Thomas Jefferson

The principal author of the Declaration of Independence had a deep interest in esoteric knowledge. While not overtly engaged in occult practices, he was known to have a deep interest in astrology and many forms of eastern and western philosophical practices.

Ronald Reagan

Beyond Nancy’s astrological consultations, the 40th president himself had a penchant for prophecies and supernatural tales, once telling an aide that he believed in the biblical account of a final battle between good and evil in Armageddon.

Benjamin Franklin

A Renaissance man of his era, Franklin dabbled in many areas of knowledge. He was a Freemason and was involved with the secretive Hellfire Club in England, known for its unconventional and possibly occult-tinged meetings.

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Theodore Roosevelt

Among his many interests, Roosevelt was fascinated by Native American mysticism. During his travels, he often engaged with indigenous tribes, immersing himself in their spiritual beliefs and rituals.

Calvin Coolidge

After the untimely death of his son, Coolidge and his wife Grace were known to have sought comfort in spiritual mediums, hoping to connect with their departed child.

Hillary Clinton

In a more modern and metaphorical sense, it has been reported that during her tenure as First Lady, Clinton held imaginary conversations with Eleanor Roosevelt and Mahatma Gandhi as a therapeutic exercise, guided by a New Age guru.

Horatio Seymour

The 1868 Democratic presidential nominee was noted for his interest in spiritualism and reportedly attended séances.

While the extent and nature of these politicians’ engagements with the occult vary, their interests highlight a human side to these figures, reminding us that leaders, like all individuals, seek understanding and solace in myriad ways.

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