French aeronaut.

Invented a flying ship that he began to show to the public in May, 1782. Made his first balloon ascension over Paris (March, 1784). Together with the American John Jeffries, made the first balloon crossing of the English Channel (1785).

Also made the first use of the parachute (1785). Completed numerous aerial ascensions in Europe and was the first man to ascend in a balloon in the United States (1793).