9. Jean de Rozier
Jean Francois Pilatre de Rozier was a French 18th century pioneer of aviation and chemist. De Rozier attempted to cross the English Channel in 1785. He believed that a standard hot-balloon would not be sufficient for the task. His version of balloon was a combination of hot air and hydrogen, which could float better. De Rozair and Pierre Romain set off from Boulogne-sur-Mer in 15 June 1785; but a sudden of wind caused his balloon to deflate. Both men crashed from the height of 1,500 feet and died instantly.