The famous educator and leader of the German Enlightenment was Johann Gottfried Herder. His contributions to philosophy, literature, and education had a significant influence on the development of nationalist thought and cultural identity in Germany and beyond. Herder championed the idea of Volksgeist, the spirit of the people, emphasizing the importance of language, tradition, and culture in shaping a nation. He believed that education should nurture individuality and foster an appreciation for one's own cultural heritage. Herder's ideas encouraged a deeper understanding of national identity and contributed to the Romantic movement, which celebrated the uniqueness of various cultures and histories across Europe.