Erich von Däniken, the renowned Swiss author and icon of alien archaeology, passed away at the age of 90. His representatives confirmed his death on a Sunday, following a hospital stay in central Switzerland. His daughter, Cornelia, verified this information to a Swiss news agency.
Legacy of Erich von Däniken in Alien Archaeology
Born in 1935 in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, von Däniken grew up in a religious household. He often rebelled against traditional beliefs, leading him to develop alternative theories about ancient civilizations. His significant breakthrough occurred in 1968 with the release of his first book, “Chariots of the Gods.”
Chariots of the Gods
This book proposed that ancient cultures, such as the Mayans and Egyptians, had interactions with extraterrestrial beings who influenced their development. The publication became a bestseller, selling over 60 million copies in 32 languages. Von Däniken’s work sparked widespread interest in unexplained phenomena during a pivotal time in history, just as humanity was beginning to explore outer space.
Impact on Popular Culture
Following the success of his debut work, von Däniken published more than 25 additional titles. These books blended fact with fantasy, creating a unique niche in literary history. Despite facing criticism from the scientific community, his ideas resonated with many readers.
Controversies and Challenges
- Von Däniken faced numerous personal and legal challenges, including accusations of fraud and tax evasion.
- He spent time in prison but continued writing, producing “Gods from Outer Space” shortly after his release.
- His financial issues recurred throughout his life, often bringing him close to ruin.
Field Research and Exploration
In the 1970s, von Däniken traveled extensively, exploring ancient sites in Egypt, India, and Latin America. His passion for archaeology led him to lecture widely and establish societies focused on his theories. He adapted to changes in technology, utilizing multimedia to engage a broader audience.
Recognition and Criticism
In 1991, von Däniken received the “Ig Nobel” prize for literature, a controversial acknowledgment of his impact on public awareness of science. Despite facing significant criticism, including exposure of flawed evidence in a British documentary, he maintained that his theories held merit.
Decline and Final Efforts
While his popularity decreased in the English-speaking world during the 1980s, his influence persisted. His work inspired various TV shows and documentaries, including the iconic series “The X-Files.” He attempted to create a theme park based on his ideas, but the initiative, known as “Mystery Park,” ultimately failed.
Erich von Däniken is survived by his wife, Elisabeth Skaja, his daughter Cornelia, and two grandchildren. His contributions to the field of alien archaeology have left a lasting impression on popular culture and the exploration of ancient mysteries.
