Paul de Kruif

Paul de Kruif

Paul de Kruif, American microbiologist and author
Name	Paul de Kruif
Birth name
Birth date	March 2, 1890
Birth place	Zeeland, Michigan, USA
Death date	February 28, 1971
Death place	Holland, Michigan, USA
Alma mater
Occupation	Microbiologist, Author
Years active
Organization
Known for
Notable works	Microbe Hunters
Spouse(s)
Website

Paul de Kruif (March 2, 1890 – February 28, 1971) was an American microbiologist and author, best known for his 1926 book Microbe Hunters. His work played a significant role in popularizing the field of microbiology and the history of medicine.

Early Life and Education

Paul de Kruif was born in Zeeland, Michigan, to a family of Dutch descent. He attended the University of Michigan, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1912 and a Ph.D. in microbiology in 1916. During his time at the university, de Kruif developed a keen interest in the burgeoning field of bacteriology.

Career

After completing his education, de Kruif served in the United States Army during World War I, where he worked in the Sanitary Corps. Following the war, he joined the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research as a bacteriologist.

De Kruif's career took a significant turn when he began writing about science for the general public. He contributed to the book Arrowsmith by Sinclair Lewis, providing scientific insights and helping to shape the novel's portrayal of medical research. Although he was not credited as a co-author, his contributions were acknowledged by Lewis.

Microbe Hunters

In 1926, de Kruif published Microbe Hunters, a collection of biographical essays about pioneering microbiologists such as Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, Louis Pasteur, and Robert Koch. The book was a commercial success and is credited with inspiring many young people to pursue careers in science and medicine. Microbe Hunters remains a classic in the field of popular science writing.

Later Work and Legacy

Following the success of Microbe Hunters, de Kruif continued to write about medical and scientific topics. His other works include The Fight for Life (1938) and Men Against Death (1932). De Kruif's writing was characterized by its engaging narrative style and its ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible to a broad audience.

De Kruif's influence extended beyond his books. He was a vocal advocate for public health and the advancement of medical research. His work helped to raise awareness about the importance of scientific inquiry and the role of microbiology in improving human health.

Personal Life

Paul de Kruif was married twice and had two children. He spent his later years in Holland, Michigan, where he continued to write and engage with the scientific community until his death in 1971.

Also see

• Microbiology
• History of medicine
• Sinclair Lewis
• Louis Pasteur
• Robert Koch