Adolph Knigge, German writer, 1752-1796

Adolph Knige was a prominent Freemason of his time, and a leading member of the Order of the Illuminati. In Germany, Knigge is best remembered for his book "Über den Umgang mit Menschen" ("On Human Relations"), a treatise on the fundamental principles of human relations that has the reputation of being the authoritative guide to behaviour, politeness, and etiquette. The work is more of a sociological and philosophical treatise on the basis of human relations than a how-to guide on etiquette, but the German word "Knigge" has come to mean "good manners" or books on etiquette.