When was Mesmer accused of fraud?

Franz Anton Mesmer was accused of fraud in the late 18th century, particularly after his practices were scrutinized by a commission appointed by King Louis XVI in 1784. The commission, which included notable figures such as Benjamin Franklin, concluded that Mesmer's claims about "animal magnetism" lacked scientific basis and were likely a result of psychological suggestion rather than any genuine magnetic force. This criticism significantly tarnished his reputation and led to his eventual decline in popularity.