Who is recognized as the inventor of the hot air balloon?

The inventor recognized for the development of the hot air balloon is the Montgolfier brothers, who were pioneers in early aerostatic flight. In 1782, they created the first successful hot air balloon, known as the "Montgolfière." Their design worked based on the principle of buoyancy, where hot air, being lighter than the cooler air outside, caused the balloon to ascend. This innovative invention laid the groundwork for the field of aeronautics and has historical significance in the exploration of manned flight.

The other individuals mentioned are notable figures in the history of aviation but contributed to different areas. Laurenco de Gusmano is not widely recognized in relation to ballooning or aviation. Otto Lilienthal is famous for his work on gliders, being one of the first to make controlled powered flights. Ferdinand von Zeppelin is known for inventing the rigid airship, which is quite different from hot air balloons.