Influences on Golden Dawn concepts and work include freemasonry, theosophy, Eliphas Levi, Papus, Enochian Magic, and medieval grimoires. It has long been thought that the synthesis of these influences into a new school of thought is largely the work of Mathers, who at times was teaching things he had discovered only days or hours before. However, more recent research suggests that Dr. Westcott was a considerable influence. Mathers was responsible for the Rosicrucian inner order of the Golden Dawn being established where practical magic was taught.

The "Golden Dawn," as it is commonly referred to, was probably the single greatest influence on 20th century western occultism. While it existed, it was the focal point of the development and redevelopment of magical thinking in Europe. In it, most concepts of magic and ritual that have since become core elements of Wicca, Thelema, western mystery schools and other forms of magical spirituality were first formulated.

In its heyday, many cultural celebrities belonged to the Golden Dawn. Some well known members included Aleister Crowley, Arthur Machen and William Butler Yeats.

After dissolution, Israel Regardie published a large part of the order's documents, contravening his vow of secrecy. Before his death, he was involved in the continuation of the Golden Dawn tradition that exists as of 2005.
The Golden Dawn tradition is a branch of ceremonial magic most concerned with the concepts and practices developed by the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn.
 

As of 2005, many more people consider themselves (but not necessarily each other) part of the Golden Dawn tradition than ever were members of the order led by Mathers. Most adherents are based in the United States and Canada.