André Michelin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
André Michelin
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André Michelin in 1920
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André Jules Michelin
16 January 1853 Paris, France
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| Died | 4 April 1931 (aged 78) Paris, France
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| Nationality | French |
| Education | Lycée Louis-le-Grand |
| Alma mater | École Centrale Paris |
| Occupation | Industrialist |
| Known for | Founder of Michelin |
| Relatives | Édouard Michelin (Brother) |
André Jules Michelin (born January 16, 1853 – died April 4, 1931) was a clever French businessman. He is famous for starting the Michelin Tyre Company with his younger brother, Édouard. They began this company in 1888 in Clermont-Ferrand, France.
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André Michelin and the Start of a Tyre Empire
In 1886, André Michelin was 33 years old. He was a successful engineer in Paris. But he decided to leave that job. He took over his grandfather's business, "Michelin et Cie." This company sold farm equipment and rubber products. It was started in 1832 but was not doing well.
André asked his younger brother, Édouard, to join him. Édouard became the company's managing director. Neither brother had much experience selling things. But they were both committed to making the business a success.
The Big Idea: Detachable Tyres
In 1889, something important happened. A cyclist came to the Michelin Company with a flat tyre. Back then, getting a flat tyre meant you could be stuck for hours. Cycling was becoming very popular. This was partly because of John Boyd Dunlop's new invention. In 1888, he patented the inflatable bicycle tyre. Before this, bicycle tyres were made of solid rubber. Solid rubber tyres were uncomfortable and didn't grip the road well.
Édouard became very interested in these new pneumatic (air-filled) tyres. The Michelin brothers realized that many people would want these tyres. But only if they could be fixed more quickly. They thought that the wheel itself needed to be easy to remove. Édouard worked on many experiments. He created several test versions. In 1891, he received a patent for a tyre that could be detached. This made fixing flat tyres much easier and faster.
The Famous Michelin Guide
In 1900, André Michelin had another great idea. He published the first Michelin Guide. The main goal of this guide was to encourage people to travel by car. By doing this, he hoped more people would buy tyres from his company. The guide gave useful information for drivers. It listed places to eat, stay, and find fuel. Today, the Michelin Guide is still very famous. It is known for rating restaurants with stars.
Honored for Their Work
André and his brother Édouard were recognized for their important contributions. In 2002, they were added to the Automotive Hall of Fame. This special place is in Dearborn, Michigan. It honors people who have made a big difference in the car world.
See also
In Spanish: André Michelin para niños
