howard robard hughes, jr. (december 24, 1905 – april 5, 1976), was an american businessman and movie producer. during his life, he was one of the richest people in the world. he was born in humble, texas to a rich family. he went to hollywood and became a movie producer and aviator. hughes broke several world records for flying aeroplanes. he created his own air company, which was later bought by twa.