Jacques-Étienne Montgolfier was a French paper manufacturer born on January 6, 1745. He is best known for his pioneering work in the development of hot air balloons, alongside his brother Joseph-Michel Montgolfier. The Montgolfier brothers conducted their first successful flight in 1782, which marked a significant milestone in the history of aviation. The Montgolfier brothers' invention was inspired by the way smoke rises from a fire. They created a balloon made of paper and cloth, which was filled with hot air to achieve lift. Their work laid the foundation for future advancements in flight, influencing figures like the Wright brothers and the development of aviation technology.