captive balloons

When Was The First Balloon Flight Across The English Channel?

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When Was The First Balloon Flight Across The English Channel? On 7th January 1785, Jean-Pierre Blanchard and Dr. John Jeffries became the first humans to triumphantly fly across the English Channel in a balloon, from Dover, England to Calais, France. When did the first hot air balloon cross the English Channel? 1785—The First Balloon Across

What Was The Purpose Of The Hot Air Balloon In The Civil War?

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What Was The Purpose Of The Hot Air Balloon In The Civil War? Nearly 70 years later during the American Civil War, balloons were still being used for similar military purposes. Civil War balloons like the Intrepid and Union (Union) and the Gazelle (Confederate) were used for reconnaissance or directing artillery fire on enemy positions.