In the 16th century many rulers realized that mastery of scientific knowledge could be a powerful political tool. The new climate stimulated the birth in Europe of numerous artisans' workshops specialized in the production of mathematical instruments. In the Germanic states, the Schissler family flourished. Its most renowned member, Christoph (c. 1531-1608), made instruments for sovereigns, the nobility, bankers and great mathematicians. Not limited to astronomy, the specialized artisans' production included instruments for drawing, computation, geography, surveying and ballistics.