Charles Augustus Lindbergh is born in Detroit, Michigan, to Charles August Lindbergh, a U.S. Congressman, and Evangeline Lodge Land Lindbergh, a chemistry teacher.

Lindbergh spends his early childhood in Little Falls, Minnesota. His upbringing is marked by a strong interest in mechanics and a detached relationship with his father, who travels frequently for his political career.

Lindbergh enrolls at the University of Wisconsin-Madison to study mechanical engineering but drops out after two years, his passion for aviation overshadowing his academic pursuits.

Lindbergh begins flight training at the Nebraska Aircraft Corporation Flying School in Lincoln, Nebraska. He quickly shows aptitude for flying, though financial constraints limit his formal instruction.

Lindbergh enlists in the U.S. Army Air Service and undergoes rigorous flight training at Brooks and Kelly Fields in Texas. He graduates at the top of his class, earning his wings and a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the Air Reserve.