* Friedrich Fröbel (1782-1852): Considered the "father of kindergarten," Fröbel established the first kindergarten in 1837. While not precisely preschool as we know it today, his emphasis on play-based learning and child-centered education laid crucial groundwork for the development of early childhood education. His ideas significantly influenced later preschool models.
* Robert Owen (1771-1858): Before Fröbel, Owen established infant schools in New Lanark, Scotland, in the early 19th century. These schools focused on caring for and educating young children, though their methods differed from later kindergarten approaches.
* Various social reformers and educators: Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, numerous individuals and social movements advocated for early childhood education, leading to the expansion and formalization of preschools in different forms across various countries. These individuals often responded to specific societal needs, such as providing care for working-class children or preparing children for formal schooling.
In short, preschool's development was a collective effort, with Fröbel's kindergarten serving as a pivotal influence on its modern form, but building upon earlier efforts and continuing to evolve since.