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How did Louis Pasteur’s father influence his patriotism?
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Louis Pasteur
In the 19th century Louis Pasteur's work established the germ theory of disease, proving that microorganisms cause fermentation and sickness, which led to the development of pasteurization, aseptic techniques in medicine, and effective vaccines for diseases such as rabies. (Painting by Albert Edelfelt, 1885.)
Louis Pasteur’s father, Jean-Joseph Pasteur, was a tanner who served as a sergeant major during the Napoleonic Wars. Having been decorated with the Legion of Honour for his service, Jean-Joseph’s background likely instilled in his son the deep sense of patriotism that became a defining element of Louis Pasteur’s character throughout his life.1