Richard James Morrison

Richard James Morrison (15 June 1795 – 5 April 1874) was an English astrologer, commonly known by his pseudonym Zadkiel.

Morrison served in the Royal Navy, but resigned with the rank of lieutenant in 1829. He then devoted himself to the study of astrology, and in 1831 issued The Herald of Astrology, subsequently known as Zadkiel's Almanac. In this annual pamphlet Morrison, over the signature Zadkiel Tao-Sze, published predictions of the chief events of the coming year.

His other works include the books:

• Handbook of Astrology
• Introduction to Astrology (1835) -- a re-edition of William Lilly's Christian Astrology.
• The Horoscope
• The Grammar of Astrology
• Astronomy in a Nutshell.

In 1863 Morrison brought a libel action against Admiral Sir Edward Belcher, who had accused him of obtaining money by charlatanism in the form of crystal-gazing. He was awarded twenty shillings (one pound) damages, but was deprived of his costs. Morrison died on 5 April 1874.

References

•  This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain: Chisholm, Hugh, ed. (1911). Encyclopædia Britannica (11th ed.). Cambridge University Press. 

External links

• Comparison of methodology and accuracy of Zadkiel and the Met Office in the 19th century
• Article placing Zadkiel in context of his time