History of Astrology. Brief History. 800 words. Discusses relation between Astrology and Astronomy and how people relied on Astrology for centuries.

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History of Astrology

Astrology and Astronomy were once a single "science". Astronomy is the study and observation of the motions of heavenly bodies and Astrology is the study of the effects the movements of these celestial bodies have on human affairs. Ancient astronomers were able to predict the recurrence of cosmic phenomena and ancient astrologers were able to forecast the events which coincided with these through lengthy observation.

For centuries, Astrology was used by many powerful leaders such as kings, emperors, and popes. In addition, scientists, doctors, and the poor utilized Astrology. It was taught together with Astronomy in many schools throughout the world.

Originally, Astronomy was used to predict weather patterns and the most favorable time for planting crops. Later, these "orbs of moving light" (the planets) were believed to be gods. These new and unexplained planets caught people's attention and soon, experts of that time were in search for "divine knowledge".

This was most likely the beginning of Astrology.

Astronomy/Astrology is believed to have started in Babylon, Mesopotamia around 4,000 B.C. It is also believed that the "sciences" were derived from the Chaldeans. Mainly, they were practiced in the temples, where it was blended with religions. Soon, it reached Egypt and it began to be used by leaders to predict the fate of nations such as war around 3,000 B.C. (Astrologers.com, 2000)

Prediction was thought to be started by the Chinese, who were also skilled astronomers. Some experts believe that Chinese astronomy may extend as far back as 5,000 B.C. In addition, the Maya of Central America and the peoples of ancient India also practiced forms of prediction.

Astrology also began to influence Greek life during the Roman times as well. The Greeks and Orientals mingled in the kingdoms of the Seleucids and Ptolemies. It became an increasingly...