Montgolfier Brothers

Montgolfier Brothers, Joseph Michel (1740-1810), and Jacques Étienne (1745-99), French brothers, born in Annonay, France, who invented the first practical hot air balloon. Their first successful balloon test took place in 1782. In a more extensive test, in June 1783, a paper-lined linen balloon rose 1800 m (6000 ft). In September 1783 they demonstrated their balloon to Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette, sending aloft and safely recovering a duck, rooster, and sheep. Flights with human passengers were made two months later.