What legacy did James Simpson leave behind?

James Simpson is best remembered for his pioneering work in the development and popularization of anaesthetics, specifically chloroform. His advocacy for the use of chloroform as a means to alleviate pain during surgery marked a significant advancement in medical practice. Prior to his contributions, surgeries often involved immense pain and suffering for patients, as anaesthesia was largely undeveloped.

Simpson's introduction of anaesthetics changed the landscape of surgery, allowing for more complex procedures to be performed with the patient under full unconsciousness and without pain. His work not only improved the immediate experience of surgical patients but also contributed to broader acceptance and further research into anaesthesia. While he did not eliminate pain in all surgeries, or invent carbolic spray, or use ether, his legacy as a key figure in establishing the use of anaesthetics fundamentally transformed surgical practices and patient care.