Leeuwenhoek (Antonie van Leeuwenhoek)

Antonie van Leeuwenhoek was a Dutch scientist in the 17th century who is often called the "Father of Microbiology." He built early microscopes that could magnify objects many times, allowing him to see tiny organisms invisible to the naked eye. His meticulous observations revealed bacteria, protozoa, and sperm cells for the first time, vastly expanding scientific understanding of microscopic life. Leeuwenhoek's discoveries laid the foundation for microbiology and changed how we see the world at a microscopic level. Despite limited formal education, his keen eye and innovative instruments made profound contributions to science.