What was a primary use of balloons during the military conflicts of the 19th century?

The primary use of balloons during military conflicts in the 19th century, particularly during the American Civil War and the Franco-Prussian War, was reconnaissance and observation. Balloons were employed by military forces to gain a strategic advantage by providing commanders with a bird's-eye view of the battlefield. This aerial vantage point allowed them to observe enemy troop movements, assess terrain, and direct artillery fire more effectively.

The ability to see beyond the horizon and gather intelligence contributed significantly to planning operations and making informed decisions during engagements. The use of balloons for reconnaissance laid the groundwork for the development of aerial surveillance techniques in future conflicts. As a result, while balloons were a novel technology for the time, their successful application for reconnaissance established a precedent for the use of aircraft in military operations moving forward.