André-Jacques Garnerin's parachute

André-Jacques Garnerin developed the first successful parachute in 1797. His design featured a streamlined canopy made from fabric, suspended by cords, with a conical shape that allowed for controlled descent. Unlike modern parachutes, it lacked suspension lines connecting the canopy to the harness, relying instead on the canopy's shape and air resistance to slow the fall. Garnerin’s parachute was deployed from a hot air balloon, allowing him to descend safely from high altitudes. This invention laid the groundwork for future developments in parachuting, demonstrating that controlled descent from great heights was possible.