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From a modest childhood gift to the first powered flight in history, the Wright brothers revolutionized aviation with innovation, persistence and a control system that changed everything
Wilbur and Orville Wright went down in history as those responsible for first flight controlled from a motorized aircraft. The two American brothers marked the beginning of modern aviation in the early 20th century. Even with controversy surrounding their recognition, especially outside the United States, the feat is considered a technological milestone.
Origins and family environment
Wilbur was born on April 16, 1867, in Millville, Indiana. Orville was born on August 19, 1871, in Dayton, Ohio, where he also died in 1948. The children of Milton Wright and Susan Catherine Koerner Wright, they grew up in an environment that encouraged scientific knowledge and experimentation.
From bicycles to the skies
The brothers were interested in mechanics from an early age. In 1892, they founded the Wright Cycle Company, a bicycle shop in Dayton. Their experience in this industry was essential for developing their technical skills and understanding the principles of how machines work.
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Their passion for aviation began with a simple toy given to them by their father. It was a small propeller powered by a rubber band. The gift sparked their curiosity.
Later, inspired by the German Otto Lilienthal, they delved into studies of aerodynamics. In 1901, they built their own wind tunnel, where they tested different wing models to better understand the principles of lift and control.
The historic flight of 1903
The result of this dedication came on December 17, 1903. On that day, in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, they achieved the first controlled powered flight of a heavier-than-air aircraft.
The aircraft was the Wright Flyer. Orville was the pilot of the first flight, which lasted 12 seconds and covered 36,6 feet. Three more flights were made on the same date. The longest, commanded by Wilbur, lasted 59 seconds and covered 260 feet.
Innovation in flight control
In addition to the flight itself, the Wright brothers' biggest difference was the three-axis control system: pitch, yaw and roll.
This allowed the pilot to control the plane's direction and stability with precision. While other researchers focused on powerful engines, the Wrights understood that the key was in controlling the flight.
Recognition and disputes
Despite this achievement, international recognition was slow to emerge. Outside the United States, there was resistance. In Brazil, for example, Alberto Santos Dumont is honored as the “Father of Aviation” for his public flight in Paris with the 14 Bis in 1906. The struggle for recognition continues to this day.
Legacy and lasting contribution
Wilbur died in 1912, at the age of 45, of typhoid fever. Orville lived until 1948. During his life, he remained active in the industry, collaborating with institutions such as the NACA, which would later become NASA.
The Wright brothers’ legacy lives on. They paved the way for modern aviation through innovation, testing, and persistence. While there is debate, their contribution to the world is undeniable.
It's all a lie, our late Santos Dumont was the one who invented aeronautical controls! Get it!
Text written by an American.
lie...it was not the first motorized flight...it was launched from a catapult...the first motorized flight was by Santos Dumont...Brazilians like to belittle themselves...
When Santos Dumont made his first flight in 1906, the brothers had already completed a 36-minute flight.