He is best known for the diary that he kept between 1660 and 1669, now recognized as one of the most important primary sources for the social history of 17th-century England.
Born into a modest social status but educated in the Classics at Magdalene College, Cambridge, Pepys enjoyed the patronage of important relatives and his own abilities to rise in the civil service.
He became Member of Parliament for Castle Rising and Tangier, Treasurer for Tangier, Clerk of the Acts of the Navy Board, Secretary of the Admiralty, President of the Royal Society and Master of Trinity House.
His famous diary provides a wealth of information on the culture and society of his day, including eye-witness accounts of some of the major events of the period, including the Great Fire of London.
Pepys's career also reflects his connections with the Restoration court and the political battles that took place during that period.
After 1669, he was unable to continue keeping his diary due to failing eyesight.
He also faced public criticism and was removed from office in 1679 on a false accusation of being a Catholic sympathizer.
He was later exonerated and served again as Secretary of the Admiralty from 1684 to 1689, helping to secure the Navy for William of Orange during the Glorious Revolution.
Pepys died in 1703, leaving his library and manuscripts to Magdalene College, Cambridge, where they remain today.
His diary has been transcribed, edited and published in many editions, and it continues to be studied and admired for its historical and literary value.