On 17 September 1683, Dutch scientist Antonie van Leeuwenhoek became the first to observe and report the existence of bacteria, using his self-crafted microscopes to peer into a previously unseen world.
His groundbreaking discovery came while examining dental plaque, where he described tiny "animalcules" moving about, which were actually bacteria.
Leeuwenhoek’s meticulous observations and detailed correspondence with the Royal Society of London not only revolutionised the understanding of microbiology but also laid the foundation for future scientific breakthroughs in medicine and biology.
