George Cayley was born in Scarborough, England back in 1773. In 1779, he started a project that is still used to this day, more in a moment. He represented the Whig party as a Member of Parliament from 1832 to 1835. In 1835, he helped in founding the UK’s first Polytechnic Institute, now the University of Westminster, serving as the chairman for many years.
He was a founding member of the British Association for the Advancement of Science. When his father died he inherited Brompton Hall and Wydale Hall.
What you may not know about George is that he developed the self-righting lifeboats, tension-spoke wheels (AKA caterpillar tractors), automatic signals for railway crossing, seat belts to name a few. However, what he is most noted for is aviation. He identified the four main components of flying, weight, lift, drag and thrust. He is known as “the father of aviation.” He was the first to identify the use of cambered wings. He designed the first glider, flown in 1804. In 1849, he designed and built a biplane which was reported to be flown by a ten-year-old boy. He died in 1857, he was 83.
Your day is worthwhile when you make someone smile, so give the free gift of a smile today.
Comments (17)Subscribe to CommentsComment