John Dee

1527-1608

English alchemist, geographer and mathematician. Dee was educated at Cambridge, and also studied widely throughout Europe, returning to England with new astronomical instruments.

Dee became astrologer to Queen Mary, but was imprisoned for sorcery. He later found favor with Queen Elizabeth, casting horoscopes for her. He wrote on a variety of topics, such as astronomy, astrology, alchemy, navigation, music, calendar reform, and geography. Many English explorers, particularly those in search of the fabled Northwest Passage, consulted Dee.