Henri Giffard

Engineer

Birthday February 8, 1825

Birth Sign Aquarius

Birthplace France

DEATH DATE Apr 14, 1882 (57)

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About

French engineer who pioneered research into flight on lighter-than-air balloons. He invented the steam injector and the powered airship in 1852.

Before Fame

He made his fortune with the invention of the steam injector, that prevented steam engine boilers from running out of water.

Trivia

He applied the principles of steam power to build the first controllable passenger-carrying aircraft.

Family Life

He chose to leave his estate to the people rather than to his family.

Associated With

Orville Wright and his brother Wilbur were not even born when he made his famous first flight.