Jacques Cousteau

Early Life

Jacques Cousteau, whose full name was Jacques-Yves Cousteau, was born in 1910 in France. As a boy, he was curious and loved learning how things worked. He enjoyed tinkering with machines and dreamed of adventure.

When Jacques was young, he joined the French Navy. While training, he discovered a deep love for the sea. Swimming and diving made him feel calm and excited at the same time.

Exploring the Ocean

Long ago, diving underwater was very hard and dangerous. Jacques wanted to change that. He dreamed of a way for people to breathe easily underwater and explore the ocean safely.

In 1943, Jacques and his friend Émile Gagnan invented the Aqua-Lung. This special breathing device let divers stay underwater for a long time. It opened a whole new world beneath the waves.

Inventions and Films

Jacques did not just explore the ocean—he shared it with everyone. He used cameras to film colorful fish, coral reefs, and mysterious sea creatures.

He traveled the world on his ship, the *Calypso*. With his crew, he made TV shows and movies about ocean life. Many families watched these shows and learned about the sea for the first time.

Protecting the Seas

As Jacques explored more, he noticed pollution hurting the oceans. Trash, oil, and dirty water were harming sea animals. This made him worried and determined to help.

He spoke up to tell people to protect the oceans. Jacques taught that the sea is important for the whole planet and that everyone should help take care of it.

Legacy

Jacques Cousteau inspired millions of people to love the ocean. Many scientists, divers, and explorers chose their careers because of him.

Even today, his work helps people understand why oceans matter. Jacques showed that curiosity, teamwork, and kindness to nature can make the world a better place.