A kite is one of the most primitive forms of aircraft in existence, as well as one of the oldest, having been used in various forms over the centuries. They are tethered, and may be controlled by someone operating the pilot lines of the kite, or they may be entirely attached to a structure and allowed to blow free in the wind. Kites gain flight by their design, which allows air to flow under and over the wing, causing lift. They have a number of uses, and may be used for recreational purposes, for sport or military application.
The first kites are thought to have been developed nearly 3000 years ago in China. The reason for their appearance in this area of the world is that the materials suitable for their construction are readily available- silk for the sail material and line, with bamboo providing a sturdy and lightweight framework. However, some people believe that an older form of kite existed long before this in the region that now makes up Indonesia, shown by cave paintings found in the area. These ancient kites are thought to have been constructed from leaves. Whatever their true origins, kites were utilized by the Chinese as a method of communication, measuring distances, lifting people and signaling. Stories of the usefulness of these devices war brought back to Europe in the 13th and 14th centuries by explorers such as Marco Polo, whilst kites themselves were brought over from China in the 16th and 17th centuries. Initially, kites were regarded as novelty items in the Western world, however, they soon became useful for scientific application. In 1750, Benjamin Franklin proposed his now famous experiment in which a kite is flown into a lightning storm to prove that lightning was electricity. The usefulness of kites in science continued, especially in the period between 1860 and 1910 which became known as the Golden Age of Kiting. During this period, kites were used extensively for meteorological purposes, as well as for wireless communications and photography.
Before aircraft became common, in the past kites were used for a number of military applications. As previously mentioned, they could be used for signaling, as well as other utilizations, such as delivering munitions and observation- by lifting the observer above the field of battle. The barrage balloon was also a form of kite, which was used during the Second World War as protection from low flying aircraft. The tether was a series of heavy steel cables, which would damage an aircraft on impact.
Kites also play an important role in the cultures of many different nations. In their homeland, China, they are frequently used as part of displays, in which they are shaped like dragons to create an impressive appearance. Kite flying is also one of the most popular games in other countries across Asia, with Afghanistan being a prime spot. Kite fighting is also common in India at the Makar Sankranti festival.