Name the three schools that propounded the theory of Diffusion.

The theory of diffusion in anthropology suggests that cultural elements, practices, or innovations spread from one society to another through various means such as trade, migration, conquest, or imitation. Several schools of thought have contributed to the development and propagation of diffusionist theories. Three prominent schools that propounded the theory of diffusion are:

1. British Diffusionism

British diffusionism emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with scholars such as Grafton Elliot Smith and William James Perry advocating for the diffusion of cultural traits from ancient civilizations, particularly Egypt and Mesopotamia, to other parts of the world. British diffusionists focused on identifying similarities in material culture, technology, and social institutions across different societies as evidence of cultural diffusion.

2. German Diffusionism

German diffusionism, also known as Kulturkreislehre (culture circle theory), was developed by scholars such as Fritz Graebner and Wilhelm Schmidt in the early 20th century. This school of thought proposed that cultural traits spread through networks of interconnected societies or "culture circles." German diffusionists emphasized the role of migration, trade, and communication in facilitating the exchange of cultural elements among neighboring groups.

3. American Diffusionism

American diffusionism emerged in the early to mid-20th century, with scholars like Franz Boas, Alfred Kroeber, and Robert Lowie contributing to its development. Unlike earlier diffusionist theories that focused on tracing the diffusion of specific cultural traits, American diffusionists adopted a more nuanced approach, recognizing the complex interactions and exchanges that occur between different cultures. American diffusionists emphasized the importance of considering environmental factors, historical context, and cultural contact in understanding patterns of cultural diffusion.