What use did airships like the Graf Zeppelin and Hindenburg serve?

Airships such as the Graf Zeppelin and Hindenburg served primarily for commercial passenger travel, which was a significant development in aviation during the early 20th century. These airships provided a luxurious and novel way for people to travel long distances, often across continents and oceans. The experience included spacious cabins, fine dining, and scenic views, appealing to wealthy travelers seeking an adventurous and elegant mode of transportation.

The Graf Zeppelin, in particular, was not only used for passenger travel but also conducted numerous successful commercial flights that helped popularize the concept of air travel. The Hindenburg, though notorious for its tragic end, was designed as a luxury passenger airship, advertised for its speed, comfort, and ability to transport large numbers of people at once.

While airships had other functions, such as military uses and exploration, the primary and most recognized role they served during their peak times was indeed in commercial passenger travel, shaping the future of air transportation.