The sight of a Zeppelin airship was all it took to fascinate the young Willy Emil Messerschmitt. With his fascination of aircraft running rampant in his mind, Messerschmitt, born in 1898, helped in the designing of the S8 Glider during the First World War. The S8 was able to stay aloft for 21 minutes, setting a world record for glider flight in 1921.
In 1925, Messerschmitt attempted flight himself in the M17. His flight did not end well, resulting in a lengthy hospitalization. By the late 1920’s, he had his own designs, although they were simple and cheap. As a result, he found himself facing financial difficulties, eventually ending in bankruptcy. Messerschmitt was blamed for the death of Hans Hackman, who died in a crash involving one of his planes, the M20. Since Messerschmitt had friends in powerful positions, one of which was Rudolph Hess, the Nazi Party came to his rescue in 1933. Hess was deputy head of the Nazi Party at that time. As a result of this friendship, as well as others, Messerschmitts’ company resumed, and obtained, government contracts. Messerschmitts’ planes were a major factor in the outcome of World War II. Many of his planes were used throughout the many battles of war, including the Bf109, which became the primary fighter for the Luftwaffe.
As the end of war drew closer, Messerschmitt designed the Me262, the first production jet fighter, capable of higher speed flight. This plane had many faults, such as low fuel capacity and ammunition. As the war came to an end in May of 1945, Messerschmitt was arrested and sent to prison for the use of slave labor. Messerschmitt attempted to rebuild his company following his release. His efforts were in vain, and he later passed away in 1978.
Post a Comment
<< Home