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Nostradamus
The French seer wrote 942 cryptic quatrains that believers say predicted Hitler, 9/11, Napoleon, and more. Critics say the verses are so vague anything can be retrofitted. Yet people have studied them for 500 years.
1503 - 1566
France
10000+ witnesses
Nostradamus wrote prophecies that have fascinated the world for five centuries.
The Prophet
According to documented history:
Michel de Nostredame:
- French physician and astrologer
- Published “Les Prophéties” (1555)
- 942 quatrains (four-line verses)
- In cryptic, obscure language
- Claimed to predict the future
Famous “Predictions”
Believers cite:
- The Great Fire of London (1666)
- The French Revolution
- Napoleon’s rise
- Hitler (“Hister”)
- 9/11 terrorist attacks
- COVID-19 pandemic
The Quatrains
His style:
- Deliberately obscure
- Mix of languages
- Symbolic imagery
- No dates
- Open to interpretation
The Skeptical View
Critics argue:
- Verses are too vague
- Retrofitted to events
- Statistical probability
- Confirmation bias
- Translation liberties
Enduring Influence
Despite criticism:
- Books constantly in print
- New interpretations for each crisis
- Popular during uncertain times
- Studied seriously by some
- Entertainment for others
His Own Words
Nostradamus wrote:
- He used astrology
- And divine inspiration
- Deliberately obscured meaning
- To avoid persecution
- “For the Church”