
André-Jacques Garnerin (pioneer of parachuting)
André-Jacques Garnerin was a pioneering French balloonist and parachutist, recognized as the first to successfully jump from a high altitude using a parachute in 1797. He developed a silk parachute that was designed to slow his descent, allowing him to land safely. His landmark jump from a hot air balloon over Paris marked the beginning of modern parachuting. Garnerin's contributions paved the way for advancements in aviation and safety technologies. His daring experiments inspired future generations of aeronauts and parachutists, establishing a critical foundation for skydiving as we know it today.