Schleiden and Schwann proposed the cell theory. The cell theory states that all living organisms are composed of cells, cells are the basic unit of structure and function in living organisms, and cells come from pre-existing cells. Schleiden, a botanist, concluded that plants are made up of cells, while Schwann, a zoologist, extended this idea to animals. Together, they formulated the cell theory, which revolutionized our understanding of biology and laid the foundation for modern cell biology.