Jacques Cousteau's life experiences were formative in shaping his passion for marine conservation. His childhood by the Mediterranean Sea instilled an early appreciation for the ocean. Serving as a French naval officer during World War II, he faced the harsh realities of warfare, which deepened his respect for life and nature. Cousteau's invention of the aqualung in the 1940s revolutionized underwater exploration, enabling him to document ocean life. His numerous documentaries and advocacy for marine preservation emphasized the importance of environmental awareness and inspired generations to value and protect the world's oceans.