Thor Heyerdahl
NorwayBiography of Thor Heyerdahl
Thor Heyerdahl, a Norwegian traveler and ethnographer, dedicated his entire life to the study of the world. Born in 1914, Heyerdahl presented his new book, "In the Footsteps of Adam," at the National Press Club in Washington. This book promised to be as successful as his previous works: "Kon-Tiki," "Aku-Aku," "Ra," "Fatu-Hiva," and others. Heyerdahl considered himself a citizen of the world, and his exploration of different civilizations and cultures reflected this belief.
Early Expeditions
Graduating from the University, Heyerdahl developed a theory that ancient civilizations were connected by the oceans, rather than being separated by them. In the late 1930s, he embarked on a journey to the Marquesas Islands to gather evidence in support of his theory. However, his research was interrupted by the outbreak of World War II. Heyerdahl underwent special training as a paratrooper and saboteur in England but luckily never had to use these skills. Nevertheless, his military training proved invaluable in the extreme conditions he faced during his oceanic expeditions aboard rafts, papyrus boats, and reed boats.
Later Life and Contributions
Now an 85-year-old scientist, Heyerdahl resides in Tenerife. Despite his retirement, he continues to give lectures and provide guidance to a new generation of researchers. He also focuses on his Museum of Ancient Civilizations and spends his leisure time tending to his garden, particularly nurturing papyrus plants brought from the banks of the Nile. Heyerdahl is passionate about dancing and laments that he never learned to drive a car, considering himself a "civilized savage" who adheres to certain principles. His wife, Jacqueline, shares his works and responsibilities, having been a former "Miss France" and an actress in Hollywood during the 1960s. Their son is involved in forestry. This summer, the renowned scientist plans to attend an international congress in Russia, where he has many friends.
