George R. Lawrence took photos of US with first 'drone'

Shortly after the turn of the 20th century, a pioneering photographer who had created his own panoramic lens put together what could be described as the world's first drone. With this innovative creation he captured incredible images of American cities from thousands of feet in the air. George R. Lawrence used a system of kites outfitted with a 49-pound camera to show a bird's-eye view of San Francisco, Chicago and New York City - among other cities and towns - in a way that they had never been seen before. He called his invention the Lawrence Captive Airship. However, during Lawrence's first attempt at aerial photography his balloon snapped free from the platform carrying him.