In what year did the history of Naval aviation begin?

The history of Naval aviation began in 1910 when the first successful launch of an aircraft from a ship took place. This significant event involved a Navy officer, Eugene Ely, who took off from the deck of the USS Birmingham in a Curtiss biplane. After making a successful flight, he landed safely onshore. This milestone marked the beginning of the integration of aviation into naval operations, leading to the establishment of a specialized branch of the Navy that would focus on air power.

The year 1910 is pivotal as it signifies the start of a transformation in naval warfare, where the inclusion of aircraft would eventually change tactics and strategies in maritime combat. The subsequent years would see developments such as the establishment of the first naval air stations and the construction of aircraft carriers, further entrenching aviation in naval strategy and operations.