History of the jet engine
Jet engine technology is traced as far back as 150 BC. Advancements slowly proceeded, limited by material and aircraft design, and practical applications weren't realized until the early 20th century. Beginning with steam, to modern designs of pulsejets and compressor-based engines, higher energy fuels also helped to refine engines and widen applications.
Source: Wikipedia — History of the jet engine (CC BY-SA 4.0)