Duncan Campbell (soothsayer) facts for kids

The history of the life and adventures of Mr. Duncan Campbell

Duncan Campbell (born around 1680, died 1730) was a Scottish man who was deaf. He became well-known for claiming to be a soothsayer, someone who could predict the future.

Early Life and Fame

Duncan Campbell was born in Scotland. He moved to London in 1694. There, his special ability to predict things quickly made him famous. Many people in high society were interested in his predictions.

After facing some money troubles, he traveled to Rotterdam and even joined the army for a short time. But he soon returned to London. He became popular again, especially after he successfully predicted the future for a rich young widow. He even moved into a house in Monmouth Street, where he continued to attract many curious visitors.

Meeting the King

Duncan Campbell's fame grew so much that he even met the King! On May 4, 1720, he was introduced to the King. He presented His Majesty with a book about his life and adventures. The King was very pleased to receive it.

The Friendly Demon and Miraculous Cures

In 1726, Duncan Campbell started selling special medicines. He published a book called The Friendly Demon. In this book, he wrote about a long illness he had in 1717. He claimed that a "good genius" (like a friendly spirit) appeared to him. This spirit told him he could be cured using a lodestone, which is a natural magnet.

The book also talked about spirits and a "marvellous sympathetic powder" from the East. Campbell told readers that they could buy his "Pulvis Miraculosus" (which means "Miraculous Powder") and the best Egyptian lodestones at his house in Buckingham Court.

Duncan Campbell passed away in 1730 after a serious illness.