Which ancient group may have utilized man-carrying kites for espionage?

The ancient group that most likely utilized man-carrying kites for espionage is the Chinese. Historical records and writings indicate that the Chinese were pioneers in the development and use of kites, dating back to around 300 BC. They were not only used for entertainment or military communication but also for various strategic purposes, including reconnaissance. The concept of espionage, or gathering intelligence on opponents, aligns well with the Chinese's innovative spirit and military practices.

The cultural significance of kites in ancient China, along with their early development, supports the idea that they may have experimented with using kites to gain aerial views of enemy positions. This application demonstrates an early understanding of the strategic advantage that can be achieved through aerial observation. The advanced nature of Chinese technology in ancient warfare further solidifies their potential use of man-carrying kites for espionage purposes.