Jacques-Etienne Montgolfier

Co-inventor of the hot air balloon

Jacques-Etienne Montgolfier - Co-inventor of the hot air balloon
Born

January 6th, 1745
280 years ago

Died

1799
226 years ago — 54 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

France

Links & References

Co-invented the hot air balloon in the 18th century, pioneering the first recorded manned flight. Contributions to aerostatic science advanced the understanding of lighter-than-air flight. Collaborated with his brother Joseph-Michel, leading to successful flights in France. The Montgolfier brothers' experiments demonstrated the practical application of heated air to achieve lift, setting the stage for future developments in aviation.

Co-invented the hot air balloon

Conducted the first manned flight in 1783

Other People Born on January 6th

Giuseppe Sammartini

Italian oboe player and composer
Born
January 6th, 1695 330 years ago
Died
1750 275 years ago — 55 years old

An oboe player and composer, this individual significantly contributed to the development of the oboe as both a solo and orchestral instrument during the Baroque period. Active in the early 18th century, compositions included concertos and sonatas that showcased the instrument's capabilities. Many works reflected the stylistic transitions of the era, merging Italian and German influences. The compositions remain part of the repertoire for woodwind players and are studied for their musical complexity and aesthetic qualities.

Continue Reading

Michael Foale

Astrophysicist and NASA astronaut
Born
January 6th, 1957 68 years ago

Born in the United Kingdom, this astrophysicist and astronaut became a citizen of the United States. Completed a PhD in physics at the University of Cambridge. Joined NASA in 1990 and flew on six spaceflights, including the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. Conducted various scientific experiments in microgravity environments. Played major roles in the assembly and operation of the International Space Station.

Continue Reading

Loretta Young

Actress and Academy Award winner
Born
January 6th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2000 24 years ago — 87 years old

This actress gained fame in Hollywood during the Golden Age of Cinema. Starting her career in the silent film era, she transitioned to talkies and became a prominent star. Featured in numerous films such as The Last Ride and The Farmer's Daughter, she showcased significant talent and versatility. Young received an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in The Farmer's Daughter, among other acclaimed performances. Beyond acting, she had a notable television career, with a successful series titled The Loretta Young Show, which won multiple Emmy Awards and established her as a television pioneer.

Continue Reading

Ralph Branca

Professional Baseball Pitcher
Born
January 6th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2016 8 years ago — 90 years old

A professional baseball pitcher achieved prominence in Major League Baseball (MLB) primarily with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Debuted in 1944 and became recognized for his powerful fastball and durability on the mound. Branca's career included participation in multiple All-Star Games and a significant role in the Dodgers' pennant-winning seasons. The game against the New York Giants in 1951 is particularly remembered for the 'Shot Heard 'Round the World,' where Branca surrendered a legendary home run. Retired with a solid career record and contributed to baseball as a coach and mentor post-retirement.

Continue Reading

Rinko Kikuchi

Japanese actress known for Babel
Born
January 6th, 1981 44 years ago

Born in 1981, this Japanese actress gained international recognition for her role in the film 'Babel', which received critical acclaim. She began her acting career in the early 2000s, appearing in various Japanese films and television dramas. Her performance in 'Babel' earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, making her the second Japanese actress to receive this honor. Subsequent roles included significant performances in films like 'Pacific Rim' and 'Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter'. This actress has also collaborated with prominent directors and participated in several international film projects, further establishing her presence in the global film industry.

Continue Reading

Casey Fossum

Baseball pitcher and World Series champion
Born
January 6th, 1978 47 years ago

A professional baseball player specialized as a pitcher. Played for several teams in Major League Baseball, including the Tampa Bay Devil Rays and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Contributed to the team's success during the 2001 season, securing a World Series championship. Known for his versatility on the mound and ability to play in different roles throughout a game.

Continue Reading