Contrary to what many people think, the history of hypnosis dates back a long time in history. In fact historical references point out to hypnosis being part of ancient cultures in places such as Egypt. There are many historical references which point to the ritual of inducing a hypnotic trance which has been part of the Egyptian as well as many other societies since ancient times.

The history of hypnosis is full of interesting developments over a long period of time. For instance you can find that during the 16th century hypnosis was used for controlling unruly farm animals. Then there are instances of many travel shows trying to draw crowds using hypnosis during the 16th and 17th centuries. Many farmers were to known to use hypnosis in order to control chickens which were used for either slaughtering or farming purposes. Hypnosis has known to be an integral part of many religions around the world throughout the history.

There were several prominent hypnotists who have had powerful influences, throughout the history of hypnosis. One of the early as well as well known names is that of Dr. Franz Anton Mesmer, from whose name the word 'mesmerism' originated. His techniques of hypnosis involved using things such as using a combination of magnets, playing harmonica and even singing in order to induce a hypnotic trance in people. He was the one who made hypnosis well known in many parts of the world in the 18th century.

Another famous person who had influenced the spread of hypnotism during the 18th century was Dr. James Esdale. He is known to have operated several patients without causing pain through the successful use of hypnotism. It was during his time that hypnosis therapy began to create a curiosity around the world. Sigmund Freud, who is considered a master in human psychology, is known to have studied hypnosis in detail too.

The history of hypnosis is full of instances of several pioneers who used hypnosis for treating a wide variety of behavioral problems and phobias. One good example for such a personality is Milton H. Erickson, who is known to have used hypnosis therapy in order to work with patients having behavioral problems. He was among the first hypnotists to realize the therapeutic usage of hypnosis therapy. It was around his time that people began to get aware of hypnosis as something more than just entertainment. Thanks to the pioneering efforts of these early practitioners of hypnosis, its fame spread around the world and continues to flourish till this day.