In Chariots Of The Gods, Erich Von Daniken puts forth the hypothesis than many of the religious and technological events of early human civilization were directly influenced by ancient astronauts or aliens who visited the earth.


Moreover, Daniken claims we are the descendants of these ancient beings. He even cites several archaeological discoveries to prove his claim. Some of these discoveries include a huge spaceport in the Andes, computer astronomy from Egyptian and Incan ruins, and spaceflight navigation charts that are a thousand years old.


Daniken highlights the fact that several complex structures existed well before the technological progress to manufacture them had been accomplished. Some of these structures include the Stonehenge, the Nazca lines in Peru, and the pyramids of Egypt. Daniken claims that the existence of such artifacts can only be explained by the presence of a strong extraterrestrial influence.


He also explains that the traditions of most religions contain references to extraterrestrial presence. However, such references have not withstood the test of time, and have been misinterpreted and obscured by the passage of generations.


The book is backed by the author’s research into lost cities, ancient ruins, and numerous scientific facts. Some of the information presented in the book was later refuted by the author himself, when fresh evidence came to light.


Chariots Of The Gods was first published in 1968. A German documentary based on the book was released in 1970. It was directed by Harald Reinl. It even went on to earn an Oscar nomination. Paradox Entertainment held the rights to the movie adaptation of the book as of March 2009. A theme park based on the book is also in the works. The book was originally written in German. It has been translated into 32 languages since then.