There have been several thousands years old flutes unearthed by archeologists, in fact prehistorical people were punching holes through hollow bones to produce proto-flutes, making the flutes one of the most ancient instruments around. However, the flute as we know it was only invented much later, sometimes at the end of the middle ages.

Flutes are easy to get a hold of and are light but they can be quite difficult to learn. Sound is created by blowing into the mouthpiece through the cylinder and notes are created by allowing or blocking air with the player's fingers on the instrument holes. This has for effect to artificially lengthen or shorten the cylinder, allowing for a different pitched note. A nice tone depends on how constant air flow is in the cylinder.

Most flutes are transverse flutes, they are held to the side of one's mouth. They come in various sizes and can be custom made to the player's arm length. There are many other types of flutes, like Pan Flutes, Bass flutes, bamboo flutes, straight flutes, etc. Professional players play a special kind of transversal flute called an "open hole" flute, which has some benefits but is harder to play.

Flutes can be found in a wide variety of settings, from big bands to orchestras, to school choirs and more. The flute is not confined to classical music or baroque music, it is also popular in styles like be-bop and jazz.
There are a lot of learning material available for aspiring flutists so if you put your mind to it you'll be able to play the flute in a few months. Learning the flute is a wonderful journey and we wish you all the best.