Maxim

Maxim, U.S. family of inventors. Sir Hiram Stevens Maxim (1840–1916) invented (1854) the automatic, rapid-firing gun (Maxim machine gun) and tested a steam-powered aircraft (it successfully lifted off the ground). Hudson Maxim (1853–1927), Sir Hiram's brother, invented an explosive more powerful than dynamite, a smokeless powder, and a torpedo propellant. Hiram Percy Maxim (1869–1936), Sir Hiram's son, invented the gun silencer, designed an electric automobile, and helped develop mufflers for automobiles and jet engines.

See also: Explosive; Machine gun.