Anton van Leeuwenhoek was a Dutch scientist and tradesman who is commonly known as the "Father of Microbiology." He is best known for his pioneering work in the field of microscopy and for being the first person to observe and describe single-celled organisms, which he called "animalcules." Van Leeuwenhoek's discoveries greatly contributed to the understanding of the microscopic world and laid the foundation for the field of microbiology. His meticulous observations and detailed drawings of microorganisms helped to advance the study of biology and medicine. Van Leeuwenhoek's contributions to science have had a lasting impact and he is remembered as one of the most important figures in the history of microbiology.