Happy Birthday, America! A Look at The Sibly Chart

Happy Birthday to the United States of America! I've decided that today I'll put up the chart of the USA, originally done by Ebenezer Sibly, a famous astrologer from the 18th century. You'll find it below. The chart was cast for 5:10pm, July 4, 1776, in Philadelphia, PA, and is one of the most well-known charts in the astrological world.

This is the "natal chart" for our nation, and there's a whole lot here to check out. But first, a quote about the Sibly Chart from Benson Bobrick's work, The Fated Sky, which gives an interesting astrological perspective on events throughout our recorded history (and a book a highly recommend!):

"On July 4, 1776, at 5:10pm, in Philadelphia, Sagittarius, ruled by Jupiter, was rising, the fixed star Regulus--which signified kings--was setting, and the Sun in Cancer conjunct [next to] the fortunate fixed star Sirius, which, by tradition, gave success in war and business as well as faithfulness and devotion, honor and renown. By accident or design, the moment Hancock picked up his pen was both stupendously propitious and symbolically apt, for it would notably link the revolution with energy and enterprise and the decline of royal power."

Here are a few things to think about.

1) Sun in Cancer--The USA was born with the sun in Cancer, and shares many traits of that sign. We're always willing to help, and take the time to "mother" other nations in difficulty. Part of the problem is, like meddling parents, we don't know when to let go. We're always trying to keep other nations from harm. The suffering of others also galvanizes us into action. We also are very warm, just the type of country to welcome others in need. I don't think I need to delve into our history too much to prove those points, right? ("Give me your tired, your poor...")

2) Sagittarius Rising--One of the most important parts of Sagittarius as a sign is freedom. The rising sign, or ascendant, is the mask through which we see the world. We believe in freedom for all to pursue what they will. And Sagittarius loves riding over the next hill just to see what is there! Think out about our movements to the west and into the Pacific. "Don't fence me in!" is an unofficial Sagittarius motto. We're always seeking, looking for what's next. Sagittarius is also a very spiritual sign, ruled by Jupiter, the planet of spirituality and religion as well as the rule of law, and our nation was founded on the principle of...religious freedom. Interesting, no? (Incidentally, ancient Romans used to swear to Jupiter when giving testimony!)

3) Regulus--A fixed star near the very end of Leo (29 Leo). It is considered to be one of the four "royal stars" of ancient astrology. This royal star was taking his leave when our nation was born.

4) Sirius--Another fixed star, Sirius heightens beneficial qualities in planets near to it and can help you go further than you even dreamed you would. Of course, it also has an excessive side. But our nation has come a long way in what is comparatively a short amount of time, hasn't it?

Astrologers are like any other experts in their field; they disagree all the time! And one of the big points of contention in this chart is the time; why 5:10pm, and how did anyone know exactly when John Hancock put his...well, John Hancock...on the line to finish the document? Bobrick suggests that Sibly's "Masonic connections" probably helped; many of the founding fathers were Masons, as was Sibly. So Bobrick theorizes that Sibly came by the exact time that way.

Here's another quote from Bobrick, this time quoting Sibly himself as he [Sibly] made judgments based on his famous chart. Remember, he made these predictions in 1784.

"On the basis of it [the chart for the USA], Sibly declared that America would one day 'have an extensive and flourishing commerce; advantageous and universal traffic to every quarter of the globe, with great security and prosperity amongst its people,' and still more, eventually constitute, 'a new Empire that shall soon or late give laws to the whole world.'"

JFK had it right when he said, "We dare not forget today that we are the heirs of that first revolution." With all the fireworks and parades, cookouts with friends and family, and other events, I hope you will take a moment to remember just how far we've come. And no matter where you are politically, spiritually, or otherwise, if you're a citizen of the United States, I hope you realize and appreciate how lucky you are today. 

Hope you enjoy the holiday!