Erich von Däniken
Swiss writer (born 1935) / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Erich Anton Paul von Däniken (/ˈɛrɪk fɒn ˈdɛnɪkɪn/; German: [ˈeːrɪç fɔn ˈdɛːnɪkən]; born 14 April 1935) is a Swiss author of several pseudoscientific books which make claims about extraterrestrial influences on early human culture, including the best-selling Chariots of the Gods?, published in 1968. Von Däniken is one of the main figures responsible for popularizing the "paleo-contact" and ancient astronauts hypotheses.
Erich von Däniken | |
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Born | Erich Anton Paul von Däniken (1935-04-14) 14 April 1935 (age 89) |
Occupation | Author |
Known for | Ancient astronauts Chariots of the Gods? |
Criminal charges | Embezzlement, fraud and forgery |
Criminal penalty | 3.5 years, ~$1,000 fine |
The ideas put forth in his books are rejected by virtually all scientists and academics, who categorize his work as pseudohistory, pseudoarchaeology, and pseudoscience.[1][2][3] Early in his career, he was convicted and served time for several counts of fraud or embezzlement,[4] and wrote one of his books in prison.
Von Däniken was the co-founder of the Archaeology, Astronautics and SETI Research Association (AAS RA). He designed Mystery Park (now known as Jungfrau Park), a theme park located in Interlaken, Switzerland, that opened in May 2003.