Otto Lilienthal was a German aviation pioneer known for his pioneering work in the field of human flight. Born on May 23, 1848, he conducted extensive gliding experiments and is often referred to as the "Glider King." Lilienthal built and flew over 200 different types of gliders, demonstrating the principles of aerodynamics and control in flight. His most famous glider, the Lilienthal Glider, allowed him to achieve flights of up to 1,000 feet. Lilienthal's work laid the groundwork for future aviation developments, influencing later aviation pioneers like Wright brothers. He tragically died in a gliding accident in 1896, but his contributions to flight remain significant.