Anton van Leeuwenhoek was a Dutch scientist born on October 24, 1632 in what was then the Dutch Republic. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Anton van Leeuwenhoek has been proclaimed "the father of microbiology" by the scientific world for his many contributions to science throughout his life. He made discoveries about bacteria, sperm, single-celled life forms, the size and shape of red blood cells, and lymphatic capillaries, but his greatest achievement was the creation of magnifying lenses for microscopes. Anton van Leeuwenhoek was able to achieve many feats and develop and improve science over the coming centuries. Throughout his youth, Anton van Leeuwenhoek traveled at a young age to find work. Anton van Leeuwenhoek saw his first simple microscope at the age of 16, in Amsterdam. At the time, he had obtained an apprenticeship with a draper and worked as a bookkeeper and cashier. In 1654 he returned to his hometown, Delft, and established his own successful drapery business. However, Anton's interest in microscopes and glass processing would continue to flourish, leading him to make groundbreaking discoveries later in his life. Although Anton van Leeuwenhoek is known as the "father of microbiology" and is praised by the scientific community, it was surprising that he made the discoveries that he did. As he came from a family with a long line of artisans, it was unexpected that he would become a scientist. He was an unlikely scientist because no member of his family before him had received higher education or a university degree. Due to his family's lack of education, the scientific community of the time completely excluded him. However, Anton neglected this factor and managed to make some of the most important discoveries in the history of biology. Anton van Leeuwenhoek learned to create lenses and made simple microscopes in which he made observations. After discovering a copy of the book Micrographia by Robert Hooke, Anton was inspired and began developing microscopes. He created lenses that ranged in magnification from 50 to about 300 times. He had never told anyone the secret of creating his lenses and often joked with the public about it. Many people searched for his secret and to discourage his competitors, Anton told how he had to grind glass for long periods of time to create his lenses. His secret to making such impressive lenses was taken with him to his grave at the age of 90. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Anton van Leeuwenhoek was an extraordinary scientist who defied the expectations and disparagement of the scientific community. He was able to create and discover some of the most important theories in the history of biology. His studies have improved health care because we are now able to identify and study microscopic substances in more detail. Additionally, his discovery of red blood cells and their shape led to the development of health sciences. Thanks to Anton van Leeuwenhoek's discoveries, he was able to direct the future of science for centuries to come. In conclusion, he was recognized for his significant work and efforts which earned him the title of “Father of Microbiology ».”.