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Lindbergh, Before He Was Famous
Long before Lindbergh flew across the Atlantic, he was already a superb pilot.
Lindbergh’s History-Making Flight
What Came Next
Lindbergh became the face of aviation. His 1927 flight touched off the “Lindbergh boom” in aviation—aircraft industry stocks rose in value, and interest in flying skyrocketed.
Touring
Lindbergh used his fame to promote excitement about air travel. Lindbergh knew he could draw crowds and build interest in flying by appearing with the Spirit of St. Louis.
Souvenirs, Toys, and More
People around the world celebrated Lindbergh’s accomplishments. They wanted tokens of the man and airplane that made history. Manufacturers seized the moment.
These items are just a few of the mementos that were sold.
Children imagined they were Lindbergh, and toymakers helped them play.
Social and Political Beliefs
Fifty years after his death, and nearly 100 since he was thrust into the global spotlight, Charles Lindbergh’s legacy remains complicated. His impact on aviation cannot be overstated, but we must also acknowledge his social and political beliefs and the way they shaped his life.
Despite accusations to the contrary, Lindbergh was not a Nazi. He condemned the horrors of Nazism in the strongest terms and adamantly supported the Nurenburg war trials. However, Lindbergh was antisemitic and had an interest in eugenics.
Even before World War II, Lindbergh's beliefs were complicated. He had a complicated relationship with pre-World War II Germany. He was a spokesperson for the isolationist American First committee, often affiliated with the anti-Semitic beliefs its members.
