Here's what we know:
* Ancient Egyptians: They were huge eyeliner fans! They used a black kohl made from ground minerals like galena and soot to line their eyes. This was believed to protect against evil spirits and was also used for cosmetic purposes.
* Ancient Sumerians and Babylonians: Evidence suggests they also used eyeliner made from similar materials as the Egyptians.
* Other cultures: Ancient civilizations in India, China, and Greece all used eyeliner in various forms.
It's likely that eyeliner was invented independently in different parts of the world at different times, making it impossible to pinpoint a single inventor.
However, eyeliner remains a popular cosmetic staple today, showing its enduring appeal throughout history.