Samuel Pepys Samuel Pepys was an English administrator, Member of Parliament, and naval official, best known for his extensive diary which provides a unique insight into life in 17th-century England. Pepys was born in London on February 23, 1633, into a wealthy fmily of tailors. He was educated at St. Paul's School and Magdalene College, Cambridge, before beginning his career as a clerk in the service of Sir Edward Montagu, later the Earl of Sandwich. In 1660, Pepys was appointed Clerk of the Acts to the Navy Board, a position that gave him responsibility for the administration of the Royal Navy. He quickly rose through the ranks of the Navy and became Secretary to the Admiralty in 1673. Despite being a civil servant, Pepys had a keen interest in science and was a Fellow of the Royal Society. Pepys began writing his diary in January 1660, and continued for almost ten years, stopping only when he feared that his failing eyesight would prevent him from continuing. The diary was written in shorthand and contained a detailed account of Pepys' daily life, including his work, social activities, and personal relationships.  Read More Read Less