The correct answer is option 'C', Lewis E. Waterman.

Fountain pens are writing instruments that use a reservoir of liquid ink to dispense ink onto the paper. They have been a popular choice for writing for many years due to their smooth and consistent ink flow. The invention of the fountain pen revolutionized the way people write, making it easier and more convenient than using dip pens or quills.

Here is an explanation of why Lewis E. Waterman is credited with inventing the fountain pen:

1. Background of Lewis E. Waterman:
- Lewis Edson Waterman was born on November 18, 1837, in Decatur, New York, USA.
- He worked as an insurance agent for most of his life, but he had a passion for improving the writing instruments of his time.

2. The Problem with Early Fountain Pens:
- Before Waterman's invention, early fountain pens had various issues like leakage, inconsistent ink flow, and difficulty in refilling.
- These problems made them unreliable and inconvenient for everyday use.

3. The Invention of Waterman's Fountain Pen:
- In 1883, Lewis E. Waterman invented a new type of fountain pen that addressed the issues faced by earlier designs.
- His key innovation was the three-channel feed system, which controlled the ink flow and prevented leakage.
- This design allowed air to enter the pen, creating a vacuum that regulated the ink flow.

4. Waterman's Patent and Success:
- In 1884, Waterman obtained a patent for his fountain pen design.
- He founded the L.E. Waterman Company in 1888 to manufacture and sell his pens.
- Waterman's pens gained popularity due to their reliability, smooth writing experience, and ease of use.

5. Legacy and Impact:
- Lewis E. Waterman's invention revolutionized the writing industry, and his company became one of the leading manufacturers of fountain pens globally.
- His innovative fountain pen design set the standard for future pen designs and influenced the development of modern writing instruments.

In conclusion, Lewis E. Waterman is credited with inventing the fountain pen due to his significant contributions in addressing the issues faced by earlier designs and his innovative three-channel feed system. His invention revolutionized the way people write and set the foundation for modern fountain pens.

Lewis Edson Waterman (1837 - 1901) was the inventor of the capillary feed fountain pen and the founder of Ideal Pen Company and Waterman Pen Company.