Astrology, the study of the movements and relative positions of celestial bodies, has been etched into the story of humanity since the dawn of civilization. The stars have fascinated not only astronomers and philosophers, but also rulers, politicians and celebrities throughout time.
This article will travel through history and explore the fascinating ways in which notable figures of the past and present have engaged with astrology, highlighting the impact of the cosmos on their life trajectories and societal influence.
Current celebrities who use astrology
Oprah Winfrey
Renowned presenter and media mogul Oprah Winfrey is an important figure in modern spirituality. An advocate for personal growth and self-discovery, Winfrey has demonstrated a keen interest in astrology. She has even hosted astrologers on her television network OWN, sharing astrological wisdom with her wide audience.
Gwyneth Paltrow
Actress turned lifestyle guru Gwyneth Paltrow has brought astrology to the forefront of wellness through her brand Goop. Paltrow’s platform regularly contains astrological articles and horoscopes.
Madonna
Madonna, the queen of pop, is known for her eclectic spiritual practices, including astrology. She is known to have consulted astrologers in the past.
Russell Brand
British comedian Russell Brand is open about his spiritual explorations, and astrology is part of his journey. His discussions of astrology help demystify the practice and bring it into the mainstream.
Kim Kardashian
As a reality TV superstar, Kim Kardashian’s interest in astrology ripples through her huge fan base. From tweeting about Mercury retrograde to reading her birth chart on television, Kim Kardashian is truly embracing astrology.
Megan Fox
Actress Megan Fox noted that astrological compatibility is a consideration in her relationships, highlighting how astrology can influence her personal decision-making.
Katya Perry
Pop superstar Katy Perry speaks about her belief in astrology. By incorporating astrological references into her performances, Perry uses her platform to celebrate her zodiac identity and encourages her fans to do the same.
Beyonce
An influential figure in music, Beyoncé’s use of astrological symbols in her work exposes millions to the wonders of astrology. She integrates celestial images and constellations into her music.
Jessica Alba
Actress and entrepreneur Jessica Alba’s commitment to natural and holistic living extends to astrology. Alba integrates her astrological interests into product lines through her brand, The Honest Company, combining business with cosmic insight.
But before that…
Emperor Augustus
In ancient Rome, astrology was an integral part of society, providing insight into everything from harvest cycles to imperial governments. Emperor Augustus, the first emperor of Rome, used astrology to consolidate and legitimize his power.
Augustus, born under the sign of Capricorn, had coins minted with his astrological symbol on them. This was a strategic move intended to align his reign with the heavenly authority and stability represented by Capricorn. Furthermore, by publicly embracing his zodiac sign, he wanted to portray himself as a steadfast and ambitious leader, traits associated with Capricorn.
Queen Elizabeth I
Moving towards the Elizabethan era in England, the reign of Queen Elizabeth I was marked by astrological influence thanks to her counselor, John Dee, a renowned mathematician, astronomer and astrologer.
Dee was tasked with selecting the most auspicious date for Elizabeth’s coronation, ensuring that her reign began under the most favorable stars. During her time in office, Elizabeth regularly consulted Dee on various matters of state, valuing the insights of the stars as much as political or military advice.
Catherine de Medici
In 16th century France, the queen consort, Catherine de Medici, held the seer Nostradamus in high esteem. Nostradamus, also an astrologer, served as Catherine’s critical advisor. His astrologically influenced quatrains, which are said to have predicted future events, provided Catherine with a strategic advantage in the volatile political landscape of the time.
Carl Jung
Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung moves from the political to the psychological domain and is a remarkable figure in the history of astrology. His interest in astrology was not about fortune telling, but was an essential part of his analytical psychology.
Jung saw astrological archetypes as representations of the unconscious mind and used birth charts to better understand the personalities of his patients. His concept of synchronicity, the idea that seemingly unrelated events could have a meaningful connection, was also heavily based on astrological thinking.
Jung’s use of astrology emphasizes its potential beyond divination; As a tool for personal insight and understanding, astrology can provide a rich symbolic language for exploring the human psyche.
Adolf Hitler
Adolf Hitler’s Nazi regime used astrology in disturbing ways. Swiss astrologer Karl Ernst Krafft was recruited to advise Hitler and his high command during World War II. Known for his predictive abilities, Krafft was tasked with predicting events to support strategic decisions. Hitler’s reliance on astrology underlines how it was manipulated during a dark chapter in history to fuel propaganda and maintain power.
Ronald Reagan
Fast forward to the United States in the 1980s, Ronald Reagan, the 40th president, made notable use of astrology. After an assassination attempt on Reagan in 1981, his wife, Nancy Reagan, turned to astrologer Joan Quigley.
Quigley’s work had a significant influence on Reagan’s presidency, with the timing of major events from press conferences to treaty signings often arranged according to astrological predictions. This shows how astrology was used at the highest levels of political decision-making in modern times.
JPMorgan
Astrology has also influenced financial decision making. In particular, the well-known financier JP Morgan consulted Evangeline Adams, a famous astrologer of his time. He valued her astrological advice to guide his financial decisions, famously saying, “Millionaires don’t use astrology, billionaires do,” underscoring astrology’s wide reach. Morgan’s use of astrology underlines its potential for strategic decision-making beyond the personal domain, extending to business and finance.
Benjamin Franklin
The appeal of astrology extended to polymath Benjamin Franklin, who, while not necessarily a great believer in astrology, recognized its cultural significance. His widely read “Poor Richard’s Almanack” contained astrological information, weather forecasts and aphorisms. In doing so, Franklin recognized the role of astrology in 18th-century American thought and daily life, and contributed to its widespread acceptance.
Theodore Roosevelt
Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, is known to have had a fascination with astrology. He was said to be looking at the ‘opposition of his seventh house moon.’ In astrology, the seventh house represents partnerships and relationships; his ruling celestial body can provide insight into the way a person interacts with others.
Conclusion
Astrology’s influence on notable figures, from monarchs to moguls, is a testament to its profound cultural imprint. Furthermore, astrology’s continued resonance with contemporary celebrities underscores its continued relevance and potential to guide, inspire, and provide introspective tools in our rapidly changing world.
