Absinthe originated in the late 18th century in Switzerland as a wormwood-based medicinal elixir.  Growing in popularity in France, it was giving the name "La Fée Verte" ("The Green Fairy") for its vivid color and rumored mind-expanding effects.

Absinthe became controversial in the early 1900's, largely due to moral panic and misinformation.  Thujone, a compound in wormwood, was blamed for hallucinations, madness and violence.  In 1905, a Swiss farmer, Jean Lanfray, murdered his family after consuming two glasses of absinthe, resulting in Switzerland banning the libation in 1910, France in 1915, and the rest of Europe and the US thereafter.

A horrible result for the Green Fairy.  What didn't make much news...

Lanfray had also consumed much wine and brandy, as well, before committing his heinous deed.