Could the pyramids have been built with extraterrestrial help? Explore the shocking origins of the ancient alien theory from the 1960s and its cultural context. Delve into the incredible intelligence and skills of the ancient Egyptians that made these monumental structures possible, without any cosmic intervention. An archaeologist reveals groundbreaking methods for transporting the massive stone blocks. Finally, the episode tackles prevalent myths, emphasizing the indispensable contributions of indigenous civilizations in shaping history.
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Von Däniken's Inspiration
Erich von Däniken's interest in ancient aliens began with a visit to the pyramids at age 18.
He questioned how ancient Egyptians, without modern tools, could design such complex structures.
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Space Race Influence
The space race influenced von Däniken's theory by highlighting space travel possibilities.
He connected this with ancient stories of gods from the sky, interpreting them as alien visitors.
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Chariots of the Gods Publication
Von Däniken's manuscript, "Chariots of the Gods," was initially rejected by publishers.
A hotel guest, believing in von Däniken's ideas, helped him get it published.
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Erich von Däniken's "Chariots of the Gods?" proposes that ancient civilizations were aided by extraterrestrial visitors, attributing advanced technologies and architectural feats to ancient astronauts. The book explores various archaeological sites and historical accounts, suggesting connections to ancient myths and legends. Däniken's theories have been widely debated and criticized by mainstream science, but the book remains a significant work in the pseudoscientific literature. It sparked considerable public interest in ancient astronaut theories and continues to inspire discussions about the possibility of extraterrestrial contact in the distant past. The book's impact on popular culture is undeniable, influencing numerous documentaries, books, and television shows.
[REBROADCAST] Is it possible that the pyramids were built with a helping hand ... from aliens? If not, how did the ancient Egyptians build them without modern technology? To get to the bottom of this, we speak to author Erich von Däniken, paleoanthropologist Dr. Shelby Putt, Egyptologist Dr. Mark Lehner, and archaeologist Prof. David S. Anderson.
This episode was produced by Rose Rimler with help from Wendy Zukerman, along with Meryl Horn, Kaitlyn Sawrey, Michelle Dang and Odelia Rubin. We’re edited by Blythe Terrell. Fact checking by Michelle Harris and Erica Akiko Howard. Mix and sound design by Emma Munger. Music by Emma Munger and Bobby Lord. A huge thanks to the team at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, as well as Professor Pierre Tallet, Professor Roland Enmarch, Jens Notroff, Professor Erin L. Thompson and everyone else who spoke to us for this episode … thanks for your help. A special thanks to Sarah Hendricks, Jake Finnicum, Frank Lopez, Joseph Lavelle Wilson and the Zukerman Family.
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