A Zeppelin is a type of airship that is filled with gas, typically hydrogen or helium, to provide lift. Named after the German inventor Ferdinand von Zeppelin, these airships were first developed in the late 19th century. They have a rigid framework that maintains their shape, allowing them to travel long distances in the sky. Zeppelins were used for various purposes, including passenger travel and military reconnaissance during World War I. Although they were popular in the early 20th century, their use declined after several high-profile accidents, such as the Hindenburg disaster in 1937, which raised safety concerns.