The eraser, as we know it, was developed in the late 18th century, with Joseph Priestley and Edward Nairne playing key roles in its invention, with Priestley naming the material "rubber" and Nairne developing the first widely marketed rubber eraser. 

Here's a more detailed look at the history of the eraser:

Pre-Eraser Erasure Methods:

Before the invention of the rubber eraser, people used various methods to erase pencil marks, including stones, wax, and even bread. 

Priestley's Discovery:

In 1770, British chemist Joseph Priestley recognized the erasing properties of a natural plant extract, which he named "rubber". 

Nairne's Invention:

In the same year, English engineer Edward Nairne developed the first widely marketed rubber eraser, using this newly named "rubber". 

Vulcanization:

The early rubber erasers were brittle, but in 1839, Charles Goodyear discovered vulcanization, a process that made rubber more durable, leading to the rubber erasers we know today. 

Pencil and Eraser Together:

Hymen Lipman, a US stationer, is credited with registering the first patent for a pencil with an attached eraser in 1858. 

Evolution of Eraser Materials:

Erasers today are made from various materials, including rubber, synthetic rubber, vinyl, plastic, and PVC.