While the theory was developed over time by many scientists, Wegener is credited with proposing the initial concept of continental drift in 1912. His book, "The Origin of Continents and Oceans," outlined his theory that the continents were once a single landmass that had drifted apart over millions of years.
While Wegener's initial theory was met with skepticism, his work provided the foundation for the later development of plate tectonics. Scientists like Harry Hess, Robert Dietz, Tuzo Wilson, and J. Tuzo Wilson contributed significantly to the development of the theory in the 1960s and 1970s, incorporating new evidence and understanding.