Glenn Curtiss was an American aviation pioneer and inventor who is best known for inventing the seaplane. He was born in 1878 and began his career as a bicycle racer and mechanic. He later became interested in aviation and developed the first successful seaplane in 1911. He went on to found the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company, which became one of the largest aircraft manufacturers in the world. He was also responsible for developing the first practical hydroplane and the first successful aircraft engine. His inventions revolutionized the aviation industry and he is considered one of the most important figures in the history of flight.