1905-1976. US tycoon. Inheriting wealth from
his father, who had patented a successful
oil-drilling bit, he created a legendary
financial empire. A skilled pilot, he
manufactured and designed aircraft. He formed
a film company in Hollywood and made the
classic film Hell's Angels 1930, about
aviators of World War I; later successes
included Scarface 1932 and The Outlaw 1943.
Flying a plane of his own design, he set
world speed records. Hughes Tool Company
became a major defence contractor during
World War II, increasing his fortune. He
invested heavily in Nevada real estate,
especially in Las Vegas. He was known for
dating glamorous movie stars, but from his
middle years he was a recluse.