progenitors
Definitions
A person or thing from which a person, animal, or plant is descended or originates; an ancestor or parent.
A person or thing that originates an artistic, political, or intellectual movement.
Examples
The ancient ruins are believed to be the work of the progenitors of this civilization.
Many modern musical styles can trace their roots back to the progenitors of jazz and blues.
Synonyms
ancestors forebears predecessors originators founders creators forerunners