Who created the first successful, manned hot air balloon?

The Montgolfier Brothers, Joseph-Michel and Jacques-Étienne, are credited with inventing and successfully launching the first manned hot air balloon in 1783. Their innovative design used a simple principle: heated air is lighter than cooler air, which allows the balloon to ascend. The brothers conducted their first successful flight with a balloon that carried a sheep, a duck, and a rooster to test its effects on living creatures. Later, they achieved the monumental flight of their balloon with human passengers, marking a significant milestone in the history of aviation. This successful endeavor laid the groundwork for future developments in ballooning and air travel. The other individuals listed are known for their contributions to different fields; for instance, the Wright Brothers are famous for developing the first powered airplane, Adolphe Sax is known for inventing the saxophone, and Thomas Edison is recognized for his work with electric inventions and the phonograph.