The concept of schools and organized education systems has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations such as Greece, Rome, and Egypt.
The invention of schools as we know them today, with standardized curricula and organized methods of teaching, can be traced to the European Renaissance in the 16th century. During this time, the concept of schooling became more formalized, and schools as institutions became more widespread, as education became seen as an important aspect of personal development and social progress.