Sir James Young Simpson was born at Bathgate, West Lothian, Scotland on June 7, 1811; he died in London on May 6, 1870. He was one of the most prominent obstetricians of modern times. Simpson was the son of a village baker. At the age of 14, he entered Edinburgh Univeristy to study medicine, graduating in 1832. Seven years later, at the age of 29, Simpson was appointed Professor of Midwifery (obstetrics) at Edinburgh. He soon became Scotland's leading obstetrician, acquiring a sizable practice through demonstrated ability and remarkable personality. During his lifetime, Simpson received many honors, including a baronetcy (1866); the Freedom of the City of Edinburgh; and an honorary degree from Oxford University. Simpson is especially remembered for the wonderful influence he exerted on his patients, and for being one of the most noteworthy personalities of his time.

In November of 1847 (the same year he was appointed physician to the Queen in Scotland), Simpson...