Final answer:
The first microscopes were developed in the early 1600s, specifically around 1665, by eyeglass makers in The Netherlands and Denmark. One of the most notable figures was Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, known for his ability to view microbes. These early models are considered primitive compared to modern microscopes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first microscopes were made in the early 1600s, which means the correct answer is 1665. These were developed by eyeglass makers in The Netherlands and Denmark. Among the early significant figures in microscopy were Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, who created microscopes capable of viewing microbes. These microscopes were constructed using two convex lenses: an objective lens and an eyepiece, working together to magnify small objects. While there is some historical ambiguity regarding the exact inventors of the microscope, improvements over time have greatly enhanced magnification, resolution, and contrast, thus making the early models by van Leeuwenhoek quite rudimentary by today's standards.