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John Alva KeelAmerican journalist who worked in the field of mysticism and ufology
Date of Birth: 25.03.1930
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Biography of John Alva Keel
- Early Life and Career
- Exploring Mysticism and Paranormal
- Theories and Controversy
- Later Life and Legacy
Biography of John Alva Keel
John Alva Keel was an American journalist who worked in the field of mysticism and ufology. He was known for introducing the popular term "Men in Black" among ufologists and in popular culture.
Early Life and Career
Keel first gained attention as a writer at the age of 12 when he published an article in a provincial magazine dedicated to magic. He later worked as a scriptwriter for radio and television. In 1945, he wrote his first article on ufology, although he personally claimed to have witnessed a UFO for the first time in 1954.
Exploring Mysticism and Paranormal
In 1957, Keel published his first book, "Jadoo," which focused on Indian yogis and their alleged paranormal abilities. In 1966, he met ufologists Ivan T. Sanderson and Aimé Michel, becoming a follower of Charles Fort. It was after the publication of his book "UFOs: Operation Trojan Horse" in 1970 that Keel gained significant recognition.
Theories and Controversy
Keel's journalistic investigation led him to firmly reject the extraterrestrial version of UFOs, stating that they were a complex phenomenon reflected in the mystical and religious beliefs of humanity. He also applied Aimé Michel's theories to American material. His book brought him scandalous fame, despite Keel not considering himself a professional ufologist. In 1971, he was awarded the title of "Ufologist of the Year" at a ufology convention.
Later Life and Legacy
On April 13, 2006, Keel suffered a heart attack but underwent successful surgery. He passed away in New York. His contribution to ufology and his introduction of the term "Men in Black" continue to be influential in the field and in popular culture.
