Taisen Deshimaru, 1914 -1982, a disciple of Zen-Master Kodo Sawaki, came to Europe in 1962 settled in Paris and spread the teachings of Zen. He trained many disciples, and was the catalyst for the creation of a multitude of practice centers. He founded the first zen-temple in Europe "La Gendronniere" to the south of Paris. His teachings and multitude of books helped spread the influence of Zen in Europe and America, particularly of the Soto sect.