William Walker Atkinson

William Walker Atkinson (5 December 1862–22 November 1932) was a multifaceted figure—an attorney, businessman, publisher, and prolific writer—who played a significant role in the early New Thought movement. Beyond his legal and commercial endeavours, he was deeply involved in occult studies and esoteric philosophy. 

Atkinson is believed to be the mind behind numerous works published under various pseudonyms, including Theron Q. Dumont, Swami Panchadasi, and Yogi Ramacharaka, among others. His penchant for anonymity and extensive use of pen names have contributed to his relative obscurity today, despite his recognition in past editions of Who’s Who in America, Religious Leaders of America, and other reference works. Over the last three decades of his life, he authored more than 100 books, many of which have remained in circulation since the early 20th century.