The History of Astrology & Your Zodiac Sign

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Analise Bruno, Writer

Have you ever gone stargazing? If not, have you perhaps ever looked up to the sky on a clear night and noticed bright flicks of light beaming from the never-ending void of space? Interestingly enough, these little beams of light, aka stars, have been a use of natural means for humans to explain why they are the way they are. This explanation for our personality and behaviors is commonly expressed in the form of our horoscope, or as defined by Oxford Language, “a forecast of a person’s future, typically including a delineation of character and circumstances, based on the relative positions of the stars and planets at the time of that person’s birth.”

Due to increasing popularity, most people likely know that if they were born between a specific set of days between two months, they fit one of the twelve signs: 

Aries (roughly March 21-April 19)

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

 Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

 Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Aquarius (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18) 

 Pisces (Feb. 19 to March 20). 

Each zodiac received its name from the specific constellation that aligned their placement with the sun and the sky on a given day within its time frame.

Before I get into explaining how each sign works to define our traits, future, personality, etc. it’s important to acknowledge where these westernized horoscopes truly originated. Although there is no true origin that explains how humans began turning to nature to determine its divine influences on us, it is believed astrology started as a part of some ancient cultures. In ancient China, it was often said that noblemen would look to eclipses and changes in the sky to determine good and bad times for their emperor, but didn’t exactly extend this line of divination to the lower class. However, as time progressed to the second millennium the Babylonians and Sumerians began turning to these natural divination practices to keep a close eye on where the gods in the sky were moving. The ancient Egyptians added to this cause by reasoning that the star patterns we observe in the sky are known as constellations, that come about as the sun moves throughout the year. This led to the Babylonians establishing zodiacs to correspond with 12 different constellations throughout the year by 1500 BC. Finally, the Greeks adopted this divination and associated each sign with a symbol, for example, the lion figure representing the Leo sign. Famous astronomer, Ptolemy, helped popularize these zodiacs in a more westernized way through the publication of his book, Tetrabiblos.

Although some don’t believe stars and the day we were born plays any real role in who we are as a person, I would have to disagree. While I don’t think star signs are directly responsible for making up every trait about ourselves, I do believe that the day, time, and year in which we are born is too particular and too special to not have some influence in our life. Personally, I think that the way the stars, sun, and sky align on the day we are born, can influence our personality in some ways, while the experiences we gather on earth influence and truly shape who we are/will grow to be. However you feel, it’s still interesting to acknowledge and imagine how your exact birthdate may influence who you are as a person. 

So, without further ado, here is a brief breakdown of your sign:  

Keep in mind that your original star sign is known as your sun sign, which is meant to represent your true identity. Whatever your sign may be, it is said to be a symbol of the essence that you shine out to the rest of the world. It is the sign responsible for helping you understand why your self-expression is the way it is. 

 

Fire Signs: Are often strong in emotion, enthusiastic, extremely passionate, can be quite temperamental, and are seen as the overachievers of the bunch

  • Aries: The Aries zodiac is cordially defined by the ram symbol which describes its passionate and independent nature. Those who are Aries can be described as trailblazers who are loyal, committed, smart, and extremely impulsive. This makes them extremely competitive beings, but extremely successful as they are always working to achieve their goals. Although they can think deeply and love hard, Aries generally have a hard time accepting other viewpoints which makes it hard for them to not come off as bossy in relationships. However, due to their very goal-oriented way of thinking, Aries has a great sense of intuition. 
  • Greatest Quality: Cardinal (great natural-born leaders)
  • Spirit Color: Red
  • Some famous Aries include: Leonardo Da Vinci, Vincent Van Gogh, Keira Knightley, Emma Watson, Reese Witherspoon, Lady Gaga, Robert Frost.

  

  • Leo: The Leo horoscope is thoughtfully symbolized by the notable lion figure that works to represent the courageousness found within those born from the end of July towards the end of August. Leos are often said to have the most amount of self-esteem out of every other sign and know what qualities it takes to be a great leader. In general, Leos love to be in the spotlight and have a strong drive to get done what needs to be done. However, because they’re so goal-oriented and love taking charge Leos can often have trouble listening to others. Nonetheless, those who have this sign are some of the most passionate and confident people out there who are extremely outgoing and brave. 
  • Greatest Quality: Fixed (Can be serious and firm when need be)
  • Spirit Color: Gold
  • Some Famous Leos Include: Daniel Radcliffe, Mila Kunis, Shawn Mendes, Cole & Dylan Sprouse, Jennifer Lopez, Demi Lovato.
  • Sagittarius: Those who are Sagittarius’s are represented by the archer symbol, and are some of the most independent and self-determined people around. Sagittarius are great natural-born leaders but have no trouble stepping down to follow their own goals. They love to adventure and are not afraid of flying solo, however, they may run into some problems as they can often be too blunt and put their feelings above everyone else’s. However, their ability to march to the beat of their drum without worrying about others’ opinions makes them some of the most successful people.
  • Greatest Quality: Mutable
  • Spirit Color: Light Blue
  • Some Famous Sagittarius Include: Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, Brad Pitt, Billie Eilish, Nicki Minaj, Charlie Puth, Britney Spears, Vanessa Hudgens.

 

Air Signs: Are quite often seen as the whimsical and creative signs fun, adventurous, exciting, and are always imagining new ideas

  • Gemini: The Gemini zodiac is defined by the image of two twins, Castor and Pollux, to symbolize the two different sides this sign shows to the world. They are said to be one of the most versatile signs who can fit in with just about any group of people. This sign is also known as one of the most emotionally intelligent, who is always optimistic and tends to never get stuck in the past. However, keeping true to its symbol (“two-faced”), Gemini’s ability to mix with so many people while being quite energetic can result in them often stirring up conflict through gossip to keep things interesting. 
  • Greatest Quality: Mutuality (ability to relate with anyone)
  • Spirit Color: Yellow
  • Some famous Geminis include: Natalie Portman, Johnny Depp, Marilyn Monroe, Chris Evans, Angelina Jolie, Prince, JFK, and Paul McCartney
  • Aquarius: The Aquarius horoscope is represented by the water bearer which is meant to symbolize their uniqueness and a never-ending stream of creativity. Out of every other sign, Aquarius’s are the hardest to describe because they are quite quirky and tend to stray away from labels. Those who fit this sign are constantly changing/evolving, but still always striving to make the world a better place. However, their ever-changing personality causes them problems with prioritizing important things like relationships. Nonetheless, their creativity allows them to be big-picture thinkers who are constantly working to improve things about themselves and the world.
  • Greatest Quality: Fixed
  • Spirit Color: Sky Blue
  • Some famous Aquarius’s include: Harry Styles, Ed Sheeran, Justin Timberlake, Shakira, Jennifer Aniston, Michael Jordan, Taylor Lautner, Abe Lincoln.
  • Libra: Libras are represented by the scale symbol, which is meant to signify that they value harmony and equilibrium in their lives. Libras are extremely intelligent and like to look at things from all different points of view. Most importantly, they are always willing to put others above themselves, as they greatly enjoy a perfect balance of happiness. However, their desire to have a balanced sense of joy can often leave them unfulfilled as they prioritize others’ needs to keep the peace over their own. Nonetheless, Libra’s make some of the greatest friends as they are effective communicators and are great at compromising. 
  • Greatest Quality: Cardinal
  • Spirit Color: Blue
  • Some famous Libra’s include: Kim Kardashian, Noah Schnapp, Zac Efron, Eminem, Will Smith, Bruno Mars, Halsey, Kamala Harris, Bella Hadid.

 

Earth Signs: These signs tend to be quite grounded in nature which is why they are so dependable and loyal, however, they often do have a material side to them that makes them more practical. 

  • Virgo: The Virgo horoscope is represented by the virgin symbol as those who fall under this sign are often quite sophisticated, intelligent, kind, and seldom complain. Those who are Virgos make some of the best types of friends as they are amazing at giving advice, and are constantly planning out what to do. Virgos often emphasize perfectionism, which helps them sometimes but can also harm their relationships as they are so strung up on trying to live up to some unrealistic expectations. However, Virgo’s gracefulness and passion make them some of the most intelligent people around who always know how to talk themselves out of a sticky situation.
  • Greatest quality: Mutable
  • Spirit Color: Silver
  • Some Famous Virgos Include: Michael Jackson, Beyonce, Zendaya, Tom Felton, Nial Horan, Dylan O’Brien, Liam Payne Adam Sandler, Freddie Mercury.
  • Capricorn: The Capricorn horoscope is symbolized by the goat which is fitting considering those under this sign tend to take full control of their destiny by the horns. Capricorn’s are extremely smart and hardworking meaning they are always known to follow through with the rules to reach their goal. They greatly value structure and always want everyone to follow the rules, which is why they may come off as possessive or stubborn. However, their lobe of hierarchies and order helps them stay focused and prioritize their happiness and goals at all times.
  • Greatest quality: Cardinal
  • Spirit Color: Dark Blue
  • Some Famous Capricorns Include: Finn Wolfhard, Lebron James, Zayn Malik, Timothee Chalamet, Ross Lynch, Meghan Trainor, Nina Dobrev, Elvis Presley, Martin Luther King Jr.
  • Taurus: Represented by the bull, Tauruses are the anchor of all zodiacs. Those who fall under this sign are extremely smart, trustworthy, and honest. Tauruses are great with other people, hence why they have so many friends. Furthermore, they are extremely hardworking and will do anything to reach their goal even if that means getting their hands dirty. However, Taurus’s can often come off as extremely stubborn because they have a hard time seeing others’ points of view. Nonetheless, Tauruses are extremely sociable people (hence why they’re so loveable) and are always able to find a way over any obstacle.
  • Greatest Quality: Fixed
  • Spirit Color: Pink
  • Some Famous Tauruses Include: Dwayne Johnson, Sabrina Carpenter, John Cena, Melanie Martinez, Travis Scott, Gigi Hadid, Adele, Megan Fox, Audrey Hepburn.  

 

Water Signs: These are the signs that are often said to be the most mysterious and private, while still having a charming aurora. However, they are also commonly labeled as sensitive and quite in tune with their emotions.

  • Scorpio: One of the most interesting signs, symbolized by the scorpion, is Scorpio. This is the trailblazing sign that is extremely intelligent, passionate, and fearless when it comes to anything. Scorpios love being authentic and voicing their opinion (even if it creates controversy), they are never the ones to step away from a debate. Scorpios can often get a bad rep because they can sometimes come off as intimidating to others for being so closed up. However, once you get to know them, you’ll realize they are genuinely great people who are extremely in tune with their emotions but still often get caught up in them. 
  • Greatest Quality: Fixed
  • Spirit Color: Black
  • Some Famous Scorpios Include: Drake, Leonardo DiCaprio, Gordon Ramsey, Bill Gates, Ryan Reynolds, Ellen Pompeo, Danny DeVito, Emma Stone, Pete Davidson. 
  • Pisces: The Pisces sign is symbolized by the two fish typically because those under this sign tend to represent two different natures. Pisces are fairly creative and smart but are especially intuitive as they have a deep respect for the inner-workings of the mind. They have huge imaginations which let them have fun all by themselves, but because they vary in nature they still can be outgoing as well. However, Pisces can end up overcomplicating their thoughts which wraps them up in a few problems. Nonetheless, those with this sign have such a great sense of intellect and intuition that it always helps lead them down the right path in life.
  • Greatest Quality: Mutable
  • Spirit Color: Seafoam Green
  • Some Famous Pisces Include: Justin Bieber, Millie Bobby Brown, Camilla Cabello, Rihanna, George Washington, Albert Einstein, Adam Levine, Kesha, Simone Biles.
  • Cancer: The Cancer horoscope is thoughtfully represented by the crab symbol which is meant to emphasize how on the exterior they may be harder and closed off, but is often more deep and passionate once you get to know them. Though appearing quite closed off, Cancers genuinely have great emotional intuition that allows them to form strong relationships. They are extremely creative people who like to have an outlet to express themselves whether that be through writing, painting, or reading. They are one of the most loyal signs of them all, but often have trouble voicing their opinion and expect others to just assume what they’re thinking in the way they typically do. However, those who are Cancers have the gift of being able to lead with both the heart AND the head. 
  • Greatest Quality: Cardinal
  • Spirit Color: Violet
  • Some Famous Cancers Include: Ariana Grande, Selena Gomez, Post Malone, Princess Diana, Lana Del Ray, Tom Hanks, Wyatt Oleff, Robin Williams, Malala Yousafzai, George Michael, Meryl Streep

It’s also important to note that your single horoscope alone does not define your personality, we all also have our moon signs (dependent on the specific time we are born and where), as well as rising signs, and ones particular to each planet. No matter where you stand on the whole astrology argument, I feel that it is interesting to at least acknowledge how the way the stars aligned on the exact moment you were born could potentially have a huge influence on how you appear as a person!

Research Info Courtesy of: Horoscope.com