Erich von Däniken

Swiss author (born 1935). Founder of modern ancient astronaut theory. 1968: 'Chariots of the Gods' — 65+ million copies, 40 languages. Core thesis: Ancient cultures were visited by ET intelligences — leaving traces in architecture, art, religion, and mythology. Key arguments: Nazca Lines (landing strips?), Puma Punku (impossible precision), Egyptian Pyramids (energy projectors?), Ezekiel's Wheel (spacecraft description), Palenque Sarcophagus (Maya astronaut), Dogon-Sirius knowledge. Founded AAS (Archaeology, Astronautics and SETI Research Association). Criticism: Selective use of evidence, underestimation of ancient human capabilities. Counterpoint: Aligns with indigenous traditions (Star People). Congruence: Dogon-Sirius knowledge (Thesis 8), Vimana texts (Nazi Ahnenerbe), Ezekiel's Wheel (UAP description), Nazca Lines as communication signs to celestial beings.