Parsons, Sir Charles (1854-1931), a British engineer, invented the steam-turbine engine and built the first turbine-powered steamship, Turbinia, in 1897. His other inventions included a steam-powered helicopter, a steam-powered airplane, and nonskid chains for automobile tires. He also made many improvements in the processes for manufacturing optical glass.
Charles Algernon Parsons was born on June 13, 1854, in London. He was knighted in 1911. Parsons died on Feb. 11, 1931.
See also Ship (Stronger, faster ships) ; Turbine (History) .
