The history of the Templars dates to the time immediately following the death of Jesus. Their extermination in the 1300s (?) (age and memory--sorry) was occasioned at Rennes le Chateau. The story is compelling and strange. It was documented by Baigent, Leigh and Lincoln in "The Holy Blood and the Holy Grail". Their conclusions to do with their 'discoveries' is not something I necessarily agree with, but their scholarship is beyond reproach, IMO, and certainly as it has to do with the Templars.

The various theories that are prevalent to do with their influence on the course of events is up for grabs, but for anyone to assume they HAD no influence is not very wise.

Interesting too is that the same Baigent who co-authored the HBHG is also editor for the official Masonic publication in England. Not that that has much to do with the price of eggs.

BM