James Shelby Downard

James Shelby Downard (March 13, 1913 – March 16, 1998)[1] was an American conspiracy theorist. His works focus on analyzing perceived occult symbolism, twilight language, and synchronicity in relation to historical events of the 20th century. Downard gained recognition for his contribution to Masonic conspiracy theories; specifically his belief that the Freemasons orchestrated the assassination of President John F. Kennedy through a ritual referred to as "Killing of the King".[2][3]

  1. ^ Obituaries, the Daily Ardmorite, March 18, 1998.
  2. ^ Cook, Monte (2009). "Lee, Harvey, and the Rest". The Skeptic's Guide to Conspiracies. Avon, Massachusetts: Adams Media. p. 71. ISBN 9781605501130. Retrieved December 19, 2012.[permanent dead link]
  3. ^ Vankin, Jonathan; Whalen, John (2004). "The Sorcerers". The 80 Greatest Conspiracy Theories of All Time. New York: Kensington Publishing Corp. pp. 290–294. ISBN 9780806525310. Retrieved December 20, 2012.