On January 7, 1785, French balloonist Jean-Pierre Blanchard and American physician John Jeffries became the first to cross the English Channel by air. They flew from Dover to Guînes, France, in a hydrogen balloon, marking the first international flight. The crossing was perilous, with the balloon losing altitude over the water, forcing them to dump most of their ballast and even some of their clothing to stay aloft.

This dramatic and dangerous feat captured the public imagination, becoming a favorite subject for satirical prints and poems that celebrated the triumph of human ingenuity over nature. It also highlighted the rivalry and cooperation between Britain and France, a frequent theme in political poetry of the era. The image of the frail balloon crossing the watery divide became a powerful symbol of human daring.