Richard Gatling was an American inventor and engineer, best known for creating the Gatling gun in 1861. This early type of machine gun featured multiple barrels that rotated, allowing it to fire several rounds in quick succession. His invention significantly influenced the development of automatic firearms and changed the nature of warfare. Born on September 12, 1818, in North Carolina, Gatling initially worked as a farmer and a mechanic. He held several patents throughout his life, contributing to various fields, including agriculture and medicine. Gatling passed away on February 26, 1903, leaving a lasting legacy in military technology.