Erich von Däniken, author of 'Chariots of the Gods,' dies at 90
Swiss author Erich von Däniken, famed for 'Chariots of the Gods', died aged 90 in central Switzerland; his controversial works sold nearly 70 million copies.
Overview
Erich von Däniken, born 1935 in Schaffhausen, died at age 90 in a central Switzerland hospital, his representatives announced on his website.
He published 'Chariots of the Gods' and successors, selling about 60 million copies of that title's series and almost 70 million total, becoming one of Switzerland's most widely read authors.
Von Däniken advanced popular ancient-astronaut theories, rejecting biblical origins and blending fact with fantasy; critics say his claims contradict historical and scientific evidence.
After leaving school in 1954 he worked in hospitality, faced repeated fraud accusations and short prison sentences, and was imprisoned for tax and financial misconduct following his publishing success.
An amateur archaeologist, he traveled to Egypt, India and Latin America in the 1970s; his books inspired a failed theme park. He is survived by wife Elisabeth Skaja, daughter Cornelia and two grandchildren.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame the story of Erich von Däniken's life and work with a balanced tone, acknowledging both his influence and the controversies surrounding his theories. They highlight his commercial success and cultural impact while also noting the scientific community's skepticism and his legal troubles. This dual focus provides a comprehensive view of his legacy, avoiding overt bias.