Nerve agents were discovered by accident in the 1930s.
The recent use of chemical weapons in Syria and the agreement of the Syrian government to give up its chemical weapon stockpiles and production facilities have focused attention on how Syria acquired chemical weapons in the first place.
A UN report has confirmed that sarin gas was used in a rocket attack on the Ghouta suburb of Damascus on 21st August, although it has not attributed blame.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sarin is a human-made agent that is considered the most toxic and rapid acting of chemical weapons. They are almost like insecticides since they work in the same manner and almost have the same harmful effects.
Through history there have been attempts to establish rules of engagement. And an agreement that chemical weapons shouldn’t be used is a long-standing one. Nevertheless, many countries had these weapons until very recently. And others no doubt have them hidden.