Étienne Montgolfier was a French paper manufacturer born in 1745, best known for his pioneering work in ballooning. Along with his brother Joseph, he invented the hot air balloon, which they famously launched in 1783. Their invention marked a significant milestone in the history of aviation, capturing the imagination of people around the world. The Montgolfier brothers' first successful flight took place in Annonay, France, where they demonstrated their balloon made of paper and cloth. This event laid the groundwork for future developments in aeronautics and inspired many inventors, including the Wright brothers, who would later achieve powered flight.