When Did People Start Smoking Weed
The Infographics Show・2 minutes read
Cannabis has a long history of medicinal, spiritual, and agricultural use, dating back over 5000 years, with various strains and products derived from the plant. The journey of cannabis from ancient China to modern legalization showcases a complex narrative of cultural significance, medicinal benefits, legal battles, and social movements.
Insights
- Cannabis has a rich history dating back over 5000 years, used for medicinal, spiritual, and agricultural purposes, with notable figures like Emperor Shen Nong of China recognizing its health benefits as early as 2700 BC.
- The journey of Cannabis from ancient rituals to modern legalization showcases a complex evolution, marked by anti-weed legislation in the 20th century, the rise of medical cannabis in the late 20th century, and the recent trend of states and countries legalizing recreational marijuana despite federal restrictions.
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Recent questions
What is the history of Cannabis?
Cannabis has a history spanning over 5000 years, with various uses and stories attached to it. It has been utilized for medicinal, spiritual, and agricultural purposes, with hemp being a common product derived from it. Emperor Shen Nong of China in 2700 BC discovered the health benefits of Cannabis, leading to its use in treating ailments and earning him the title of The Father of Chinese Medicine. The Silk Road facilitated the spread of Cannabis from China to Europe, with evidence of its use found in ancient burial sites in the Pamir Mountains. Cannabis was used in rituals and ceremonies, such as in India where Bhang, a Cannabis-based drink, is associated with the Hindu god Shiva.
How did Cannabis spread globally?
Cannabis became popular in Asia, Africa, and Europe, with hemp being widely used for various purposes, including ship rigging. The Silk Road played a crucial role in the spread of Cannabis from China to Europe, facilitating its movement across continents. The plant's versatility and benefits led to its adoption in different cultures and regions, contributing to its widespread popularity and use worldwide.
What was the impact of Cannabis in Western medicine?
Dr. William Brooke O’Shaughnessy introduced Cannabis to Western medicine in the 19th century, highlighting its medical benefits and paving the way for its widespread use. Cannabis Indica, a new strain of Cannabis, was noted for its relaxation effects and increased delirium, becoming popular in Western medicine. The inclusion of Cannabis in the United States Pharmacopeia in 1850 marked its recognition in American medicine, showcasing its significance in the field of healthcare.
How did Cannabis face legal challenges?
Anti-weed legislation began in the late 18th century and continued into the 20th century, with various countries and regions imposing bans on Cannabis. The United States implemented prohibition through acts like the Harrison Narcotic Act and the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937, restricting the use and distribution of Cannabis. Political movements and campaigns against drug abuse further intensified the legal challenges faced by Cannabis, leading to its classification as a Schedule One narcotic under the Controlled Substances Act.
What were the milestones in Cannabis legalization?
Despite federal restrictions, states like Colorado and Washington legalized recreational marijuana in 2012, with Uruguay becoming the first country to fully legalize cannabis in 2013. California played a significant role in the legalization of medical cannabis in 1996 under Proposition 215, sparking a domino effect with other states and countries following suit. These milestones marked a shift in attitudes towards Cannabis, leading to increased acceptance and legalization efforts globally.
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Summary
00:00
History of Cannabis: From Ancient Medicine to Prohibition
- Cannabis, known as weed or marijuana, has a history spanning over 5000 years, with various uses and stories attached to it.
- The Cannabis plant has been utilized for medicinal, spiritual, and agricultural purposes, with hemp being a common product derived from it.
- Emperor Shen Nong of China in 2700 BC discovered the health benefits of Cannabis, leading to its use in treating ailments and earning him the title of The Father of Chinese Medicine.
- The Silk Road facilitated the spread of Cannabis from China to Europe, with evidence of its use found in ancient burial sites in the Pamir Mountains.
- Cannabis was used in rituals and ceremonies, such as in India where Bhang, a Cannabis-based drink, is associated with the Hindu god Shiva.
- Cannabis became popular in Asia, Africa, and Europe, with hemp being widely used for various purposes, including ship rigging.
- Dr. William Brooke O’Shaughnessy introduced Cannabis to Western medicine in the 19th century, highlighting its medical benefits and paving the way for its widespread use.
- Cannabis Indica, a new strain of Cannabis, was noted for its relaxation effects and increased delirium, becoming popular in Western medicine.
- Cannabis was included in the United States Pharmacopeia in 1850, marking its recognition in American medicine, while recreational use was celebrated in France by the Club des Hachichins.
- Anti-weed legislation began in the late 18th century and continued into the 20th century, with various countries and regions imposing bans on Cannabis, leading to its prohibition in the United States through acts like the Harrison Narcotic Act and the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937.
11:44
Evolution of Cannabis Legalization in the US
- In 1967, the "Summer of Love" in San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury district marked a celebration of freedom, peace, art, music, and cannabis, sparking Nixon's War on Drugs in 1971.
- Nixon declared drug abuse as a major threat, using cannabis against political opponents, leading to the Controlled Substances Act listing cannabis as a Schedule One narcotic.
- Reagan's presidency from 1981-1989 intensified the anti-drug stance, with the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 increasing penalties for drug-related crimes, including marijuana.
- Nancy Reagan's "Just Say No" campaign and the D.A.R.E program aimed to combat drug abuse, with PSAs like "This Is Your Brain on Drugs" becoming iconic.
- California legalized medical cannabis in 1996 under Proposition 215, leading to a domino effect with other states and countries legalizing medical marijuana.
- Despite federal restrictions, states like Colorado and Washington legalized recreational marijuana in 2012, with Uruguay becoming the first country to fully legalize cannabis in 2013.
