Louis Pasteur (1822-1895)
French chemist Louis Pasteur discovered that heat could kill bacteria which otherwise spoiled liquids including wine and beer. He was the first to understand microscopic organisms, and a paper he published following his research with wine introduced the field of microbiology. He proved that the growth of bacteria resulted from germs in the air and not spontaneous generation. He applied the process of heating liquids to kill bacteria to other products including milk. The process is known as "pasteurization." In the 1870s Pasteur applied his efforts toward human diseases, beginning with anthrax, a disease which affected animals and people. He also invented a vaccine to counter the effects of rabies. Pasteur directed the Pasteur Institute dedicated to rabies research until his death.
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Pasteur, Louis - Encarta Online Deluxe
Life and Times of Louis Pasteur
Creative Quotations from Louis Pasteur (1822-1895)