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400 BCE
Toy Copter
The very first known examples of a helicopter like concept were small Chinese wooden toys that are still around today. They are made up of two wing like structures, and when spun, they create lift and rise up. These were used by Da Vinci, and many others as a model for actual helicopters.
Source: http://www.aerospaceweb.org/design/helicopter/history.shtml -
Jan 1, 1480
Helical Air Screw
This first prototype was invented by Leonardo Da Vinci sometime during the 15th century. It was one of the most aesthetically pleasing designs at the time, but it was never actually made. The concept however, carried on to become something different.
Source: http://www.da-vinci-inventions.com/aerial-screw.aspx
Source 2: http://www.aerospaceweb.org/design/helicopter/history.shtml -
First Helicopter
This early model, made by Sir George Cayley was the first functional helicopter. It was powered through elastic bands and could go up to heights of 90 feet, which at the time was fairly impressive. This was a major innovation to the previous Da Vinci craft, even though it didn't have many practical uses due to its low altitude and high use of manual labor.
Source: http://www.aerospaceweb.org/design/helicopter/history.shtml -
First Vertical Flight
The firsts helicopter to make a complete vertical take off was constructed by a French mechanic named Paul Cornu. Not only did it take off but it was the first helicopter to use a mechanically powered engine and focus on control. Even though it was impractical and hard to use at the time, Cornu's concept would lead to further improvement and innovation.
Source: http://www.aerospaceweb.org/design/helicopter/history.shtml -
First "True" Helicopter
Right before the second World War, Germany made many significant improvements on past helicopter designs. The FA-61, a helicopter designed by Heinrich Focke, was the first German helicopter to take flight. It was the FL-282 however, that was designed by Anton Flettner, that was actually used by the German navy to fight the war. This gave them some advantages.
Source: http://www.aerospaceweb.org/design/helicopter/history2.shtml -
"Modern" Helicopter
The VS-300 was one of the first helicopters to use a back rotor to counteract the torque of the main propeller. Invented by Igor Sikorsky, this helicopter concept was the first of its kind, and would serve as the basis for all future helicopters that would be mass produced.
Source: http://connecticuthistory.org/worlds-first-helicopter-today-in-history/ -
First Military Helicopter
The Bell 207 Sioux Scout was the first helicopter that was designed specifically for combat. There were earlier designs but they were mainly used transportation of ground troops. This design was the first to incorporate durable armor and strong weaponry which made it a massive aerial threat that not many new how to deal with, helping the US win many wars.
Source: http://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=13
