SAGA

Magazine Overview

Title: SAGA
Issue: APRIL/73
Volume: 47401
Date: April 1973
Publisher: BI PUBL
Country: USA
Price: 60¢

This issue of SAGA features a prominent cover headline about "WERNER VON BRAUN: AMERICA'S FUTURE IN SPACE." Other cover stories include "Bill Holden: Passion for Danger," "Tina Cristiani of Badge 373," "Test Tube Supermen: Crisis for Mankind," "Maneater of Shapi," "Narcotic Air War: U.S. Dawn Patrol," "Unheralded UFO Experts," and "The Great Life Insurance Rip-Off," along with "Rafaelillo: Teenage Matador."

America's Unrecognized UFO Experts

The main article, "America's Unrecognized UFO Experts" by John A. Keel, delves into the profound connection between ancient Hopi Indian myths and UFO sightings. Keel posits that the Hopis have centuries-old legends and writings that refer to beings from other planets with remarkable powers, suggesting these are not mere myths but accounts of actual encounters.

Hopi Prophecies and UFOs

The article highlights that Hopi prophecies are remarkably accurate in predicting future events. It mentions that in 1914, the Hopis sang a song predicting the spread of evil, which they repeated in 1940 before WWII and again in 1961 as the U.S. entered the Vietnam War. These prophecies also speak of a future World War III, originating in the East and leading to the total destruction of the U.S., with the Hopis being saved.

Paul R. Solem and the Prescott Demonstrations

A central figure in the article is Paul R. Solem, a UFO contactee who claimed to have received messages from Venusians. Solem was instructed to go to Hotevilla, Arizona, the center of the Hopi nation, where he met with Hopi leaders like the 108-year-old Chief Dan Katchongva. Katchongva reportedly affirmed Solem's truthfulness, stating it was part of their religion.

Solem's claims gained attention when, in August 1970, UFOs began appearing over Prescott, Arizona. This led to a planned series of four major UFO demonstrations in Prescott, scheduled for Easter Sunday, 1971. Despite initial excitement and media attention, the first demonstration was disrupted by bulldozers, leading Solem to cancel subsequent events and leave Prescott.

Hopi Mythology and Ancient Beliefs

The article explores the Hopi belief system, including their legends of the "True White Brother" who is prophesied to return with great power and possibly use a swastika symbol. It also touches upon the Hopi concept of Kachinas, beings from other planets who taught them agriculture and other arts. The Hopis believe these Kachinas reside in the San Francisco mountains in Arizona.

Historical Context and Similarities

Keel draws parallels between Hopi legends and ancient myths from other cultures, such as cave paintings in France, China, and Africa depicting UFO-like objects. He also references the prophecies of Nostradamus and St. John's Book of Revelations, noting similarities in predictions of global conflict and the rise of a powerful leader.

Scientific and Skeptical Perspectives

The article briefly mentions scientific figures like Dr. J. Allen Hynek, who believed there was "scientific pay dirt" in UFO phenomena, and Dr. Edward U. Condon, who disagreed. It also includes the skeptical perspective of Joe Kraus, managing editor of the Prescott Courier, who, despite his initial skepticism, acknowledged Solem's dedication and the numerous sightings that accompanied him.

The "True White Brother" and Prophecies

Hopi tradition describes the "True White Brother" as a powerful warlord who will bring the Sacred Stone Tablets and come to control the continent. The prophecy warns the Hopi people never to take up arms. The article also discusses the potential for a new dictator who will be "unmerciful and command great numbers of people."

UFOs and Human Consciousness

Keel suggests that the UFO phenomenon might be linked to human consciousness, with apparitions and prophecies potentially being products of the psyche. He concludes by pondering whether the coming of UFOs signifies a new era that will lead to a more honest view of the cosmos and ourselves.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFOs, ancient prophecies, and the intersection of indigenous beliefs with extraterrestrial phenomena. The magazine appears to take a stance that lends credence to the possibility of genuine UFO encounters and the validity of ancient prophecies, particularly those of the Hopi Indians, suggesting a deeper, possibly cosmic, influence on human history and future events. The editorial stance leans towards exploring the mysterious and unexplained, encouraging readers to consider unconventional explanations for historical and contemporary events.