Versatile German architect, social reformer, and aviation pioneer (1849–1933) who took part in a number of early flight experiments with his brother, Otto Lilienthal. Partial German-language manuscript in Lilienthal’s hand, signed “Gustav Lilienthal,” one lightly lined page, 8.5 x 11, no date. The first page of an article titled “When Aviation Was Still in Its Infancy.” In part (translated): “If we take a look back to the development of aviation, how it emerged from the preparatory work of many explorers, it becomes clear that, up to the measurements of air resistance taken by us brothers and the glides mainly carried out by my brother Otto, no substantial progress had been achieved in the understanding of the conditions that need to be met in order to fly. Until then, only even surfaces were used for the test track, which never led to any results, so that we eventually tried it with slightly vaulted surfaces, which produced a much more favorable air resistance…. Only this discovery enabled us to produce big enough measuring areas to have a human sit within it…. This is how the first glider came into being, first as monoplane, then, later, also as biplane…. [In 1896] we sent a paraglider to Mr. Channte, the head of the American Aeronautical Association, who then … into the hands of the Wright [Brothers]….” Folds (one slightly touching last letter of signature) and a hint of very mild toning, otherwise fine, clean condition. R&R COA.
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