* Old English (449-1066 AD): This was heavily influenced by the Germanic tribes (Angles, Saxons, Jutes) who invaded Britain.
* Middle English (1066-1485 AD): The Norman Conquest brought French influence, creating a hybrid language.
* Early Modern English (1485-1660 AD): The Renaissance saw a shift towards a more standardized language, with influences from Latin and Greek.
* Modern English (1660-present): The language continued to evolve, incorporating new vocabulary and grammar rules.
So, rather than a single inventor, it's more accurate to say that English evolved through the combined contributions of many cultures and peoples.