This document provides information on the historical development of the microscope from the 1600s to modern day. It describes key figures like Zacharias Janssen, Hans Janssen, Robert Hooke, and Anton van Leeuwenhoek who helped advance microscope technology. The text also outlines the basic parts of a compound light microscope like the eyepiece, revolving nosepiece, objectives, stage, diaphragm, light source, arm, coarse and fine adjustment knobs, and base. Proper use and storage procedures for microscopes are also outlined.