William Lilly

William Lilly was a prominent seventeenth-century English astrologer whose influence on the field of astrology remains significant. Born in Leicestershire to a yeoman farmer, he moved to London as a young man and eventually secured his fortune by marrying his former employer's widow. This newfound stability allowed him to delve deeply into the study of astrology, culminating in the publication of his groundbreaking work, 'Christian Astrology,' in 1647. This text was notable for being the first comprehensive astrological guide printed in English, rather than Latin, and it provided insights that resonated with a nation grappling with the turmoil of the English Civil War. Lilly's annual almanacs became immensely popular, selling around 30,000 copies a year by 1659, solidifying his status as the foremost astrologer in England. His autobiography, published in 1681, offers a unique glimpse into the political landscape of his time, detailing interactions with notable figures such as Oliver Cromwell and recounting events like the Great Fire of London. Lilly's candid and entertaining narrative not only chronicled his life but also provided valuable historical context about his contemporaries, making it a significant contribution to both astrology and English literature. His legacy endures as a pivotal figure in the development of Western astrological tradition, bridging the gap between the mystical and the political in a time of great change.