What Happened This Year 1799

All Events 23 Births 42 Deaths 38

People Who Died in 1799

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

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.

Henri-Joseph Rigel

German-French composer and conductor

Born

February 9th, 1741 284 years ago

Died

1799 226 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1741, a composer and conductor operated primarily in France. Early musical education included studies in Italy. Established a reputation through contributions to operatic and orchestral music. Gained recognition for compositions performed in Paris and across Europe. Developed a distinctive style that blended French and Italian musical traditions.