Diethyl ether, the most widely used compound of its class, was first put to what use in 1846?

1. The text gives a specific historical use for this compound, distinct from its modern industrial applications. 2. It states: "It was first used in 1846 as an anesthetic, but better anesthetics have now largely taken its place." 3. Diethyl ether's modern uses (as a solvent for gums, fats, and resins) came later and are different from this original 1846 medical application. 4. So diethyl ether's historic first use, in 1846, was as an anesthetic. _Source: OpenStax Chemistry Ch 20 "Organic Chemistry", p.1119 §20.2 Alcohols and Ethers_