Who is the Father of Acid?
The term "father of acid" is ambiguous and requires clarification. It can refer to several different contexts:
Albert Hofmann (11 January 1906 – 29 April 2008) is widely recognized as the father of LSD. A Swiss chemist, he first synthesized lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in 1938, and later accidentally ingested it, discovering its psychedelic properties in 1943. Numerous sources, including The New York Times, NBC News, and Wikipedia, corroborate this. His work significantly impacted the understanding and use of this psychoactive substance.
- Key Contributions: Synthesized LSD, documented its effects, and inadvertently initiated the widespread interest in its psychedelic properties.
2. The "Father of Acid Rain": Robert Angus Smith
Another interpretation of "father of acid" points to Robert Angus Smith (15 February 1817 – 12 May 1884). A chemist and environmental scientist, Smith is credited with identifying and naming "acid rain" in the mid-19th century. The Rylands Library blog highlights his pioneering work in this area.
- Key Contributions: Identified the phenomenon of acid rain and advanced its understanding as an environmental problem.
3. The "Father of Acid House Music": A Contested Title
The term "father of acid house" doesn't have a single definitive figure. While various producers and DJs are credited with shaping the genre's sound, there is no universally accepted "father" figure like in the previous examples.
