Cannabis in Early American History: From Hemp Farms to Prohibition

Hemp was a vital crop in early America, so much so that in the 1600s, laws in Virginia required farmers to grow it. Used for everything from rope to sails, hemp was indispensable to the burgeoning nation. Even George Washington and Thomas Jefferson grew hemp on their plantations. However, the narrative shifted dramatically in the early 20th century. Amidst growing anti-Mexican sentiment and the influence of major industries like timber and pharmaceuticals, cannabis became demonized. This led to the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937, effectively criminalizing cannabis. Understanding this transition from a vital resource to a prohibited substance reveals the complexities of cannabis regulation today and highlights the influence of economic and racial factors on drug policy.