Alberto Santos-Dumont

Alberto Santos-Dumont (July 20, 1873 - July 23, 1932) was an important early pioneer of aviation. Although he was born, grew up, and died in Brazil, his contributions to aviation were made while he was living in France.

Related Topics:
July 20 - 1873 - July 23 - 1932 - Aviation - Brazil - France

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Santos-Dumont described himself as the first "sportsman of the air." He designed, built, and flew a variety of balloons before developing the first practical dirigible balloons (i.e. airships.)

Related Topics:
Balloon - Dirigible balloons

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In addition, he made the first fully public flight of an airplane, in Paris in October of 1906

Related Topics:
Airplane - Paris - 1906

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(In comparison, the secretive Wright brothers did not make any public flights until 1908.) That aircraft, designated 14 Bis or Oiseau de proie (French for "bird of prey"), is considered by many to be the first to take off, fly, and land without the use of catapults, high winds, or other external assistance. Thus, Brazilians, as well as many other admirers of Santos-Dumont, consider him to be the "Father of Aviation" as well as the inventor of the airplane. (Much controversy persists around the many competing claims of early

Related Topics:
Wright brothers - 1908 - 14 Bis - Brazilians - Airplane

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aviators. See first flying machine for more discussion.)

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