Who is known as the "Father of the microscope" for being the first to see bacteria?

Anton van Leeuwenhoek is hailed as the "Father of the microscope" primarily because of his pioneering work in the development and use of microscopes. He crafted highly refined lenses that allowed him to magnify specimens up to 275 times, a significant improvement over existing technology at the time. Van Leeuwenhoek was the first individual to observe and describe single-celled organisms, including bacteria, which he referred to as "animalcules." His meticulous observations and detailed notes laid the groundwork for microbiology, opening the door to our understanding of the microbial world.

In contrast, Robert Hooke is often recognized for his contributions to microscopy as well, specifically for coining the term "cell" after observing the structure of cork under a microscope, but he did not discover bacteria. Louis Pasteur made revolutionary contributions to microbiology, particularly in germ theory and pasteurization, while Joseph Lister is known for introducing antiseptic surgical techniques. Neither of these figures were directly associated with the early observations of bacteria. Thus, Van Leeuwenhoek's unique achievements in microscope innovation and biological discovery rightfully earned him this title.