Who is recognized as the father of microbiology and invented the microscope?

Anton von Leeuwenhoek is recognized as the father of microbiology primarily because of his pioneering work in the discovery and description of microorganisms using a microscope he designed and built himself. In the late 17th century, Leeuwenhoek became the first person to observe bacteria and protozoa, marking a significant breakthrough in the understanding of microbial life.

His meticulous observations and detailed documentation laid the groundwork for the field of microbiology. Leeuwenhoek's ability to achieve high magnification with his simple microscopes allowed him to observe single-celled organisms for the first time, fundamentally altering the scientific community's view of life and the natural world. This innovative work went on to influence various biological sciences, including medicine and immunology, by highlighting previously unseen forms of life.

While Louis Pasteur, Joseph Lister, and Edward Jenner made substantial contributions to microbiology and medicine—such as germ theory, antisepsis, and vaccination, respectively—it was Leeuwenhoek's invention of the microscope and subsequent discoveries that directly earned him the title of the father of microbiology.