Jacques-Yves Cousteau was a pioneering French oceanographer, filmmaker, inventor, and environmentalist whose work fundamentally changed how the world viewed the ocean. Born on 11June 1910, in Saint-André-de-Cubzac, France, Cousteau began his career as a naval officer. His passion for the sea and exploration led him to co-develop the Aqua-Lung in the 1940s, an early form of scuba diving equipment that allowed divers to explore underwater for extended periods. This innovation opened up the underwater world to both scientists and the general public, laying the foundation for modern scuba diving.
Cousteau was not only a scientist and inventor but also a gifted communicator. He brought the mysteries of the deep to global audiences through a series of groundbreaking documentaries and books. His 1956 film The Silent World, co-directed with Louis Malle, was one of the first underwater documentaries shot in color and won both the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival and an Academy Award. Over the years, Cousteau produced numerous television series, including the popular The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau, which captivated millions and emphasized the importance of marine conservation.
In addition to his media work, Cousteau was a passionate environmental advocate. He founded The Cousteau Society in 1973, dedicated to protecting marine life and educating the public about environmental issues. Through his explorations aboard his famous research vessel Calypso, Cousteau studied a wide range of marine ecosystems and tirelessly campaigned against pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction. He received numerous awards throughout his life for his contributions to science and conservation.
Jacques Cousteau passed away on 25 June 1997, in Paris, France, at the age of 87. His legacy continues to inspire ocean explorers, scientists, and environmentalists around the world.