What was significant about the Wright Brothers' use of the phrase "the first in powered flight"?

The significance of the Wright Brothers' use of the phrase "the first in powered flight" lies in its establishment of a recognized milestone in aviation history. This phrase articulated a definitive moment that distinguished their achievement from previous attempts at flight, highlighting the key innovation of sustained, controlled flight powered by an engine. By claiming this status, the Wright Brothers not only validated their extensive research and experimentation but also set a foundation for future developments in aviation technology. The phrase underscored the importance of their invention, which combined flight control with powered propulsion, thereby paving the way for all subsequent advances in aviation. This claim has since been widely accepted and is regarded as a pivotal event that contributed to the evolution of human flight.