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Marijuana was extracted from the plant-based cannabis plant between 1600 and 1601. what is currently recognized as hemp. The American colonies were the first to cultivate hemp fiber for use in clothing, ropes, and sails. They cooked alongside the seeds.

prior to the development of medical practices.

Marijuana - Plant, Use & Effects | HISTORY

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A significant export long before the American Revolution, hemp rose to prominence. Some plants were brought across the Atlantic by the first people to settle in Jamestown, Virginia. Nevertheless, no reform movements are known to exist during this time frame. During the 1600s, they were more concerned with growing hemp than with a reform movement.

Guns, Gold, and Ganja: The Outlaw Cannabis Trade of the Wild West

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In order to help England, King James I had to step up his efforts. The colonists increased hemp cultivation over time in an effort to increase England's visibility to the Americans. There were no significant reform movements pertaining to marijuana at this time, particularly in regards to legalization or medical applications, as we might think of them today. Cannabis, on the other hand, was mainly considered an industrial resource. During the early colonial era, marijuana (hemp) was legal to grow, and because of its economic benefits, several colonial laws even promoted its cultivation.

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1619-1620: The First Cannabis Law in History 

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1619-1620: The First Cannabis Law in History 

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The Virginia Assembly enacted groundbreaking legislation requiring all farm laborers in the Jamestown community to cultivate Indian hemp. Making it the first.

This mirrored the early colonies' economic requirements, as hemp was utilized to produce goods for trade and survival as well as for the production of necessary materials. For instance, clothing, sails, and ropes.

https://hempshopper.com/hemp-history/1619-implementation-of-the-first-cannabis-law-in-the-new-world/

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The Virginia colony recognized hemp’s economic potential and encouraged its cultivation as a cash crop. Hemp cultivation spread throughout New England and the Southern colonies, driven by its economic benefits. The focus was on fiber production rather than medicinal uses. https://nationalhempassociation.org/hemp-history/

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The first medical text in the colonies referenced cannabis, acknowledging its potential medicinal uses, though primarily focusing on industrial applications. Practitioners documented anecdotal uses of hemp seeds and extracts for ailments like inflammation and anxiety, but these were not widely adopted in formal medical practices. https://www.oah.org/publications/jah/

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Policies remained stable, with continued support for hemp cultivation. Efforts to standardize production practices began, although no significant legislative changes occurred.The market for hemp products expanded as demand for durable materials increased, solidifying hemp's importance in the colonial economy. https://www.oah.org/publications/jah/

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Technological innovations in processing and cultivation methods were adopted, leading to higher yields and better-quality fibers. Medical texts began to include more systematic observations on the medicinal uses of cannabis extracts, although these were still not mainstream. The focus remained on industrial use.

https://www.oah.org/publications/jah/

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1720s: Cannabis Cultivation for Hemp in Colonial America 

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1720s: Cannabis Cultivation for Hemp in Colonial America 

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Theme: Technological Innovation

During the 1720s, American colonists grew cannabis because of its hemp fiber, which was very important because it an essential material to create sails, rope, textiles etc. In addition, they knew about its psychoactive properties but cannabis was mostly used for its material purpose, which made it more likely that they would used it in relation to medical treatment later on.

Citation:

Johnson, N. (2019). American weed: A history of cannabis cultivation in the United States. EchoGéo, (48).

https://doi. org/10.4000/echogeo.17650

-Joceline Carrillo

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1730-1760:Cannabis in Colonial Apothecaries 

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1730-1760:Cannabis in Colonial Apothecaries 

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Theme: Technological Innovation

During this time, Apothecaries were known for commonly using cannabis tinctures as a plant based treatment for many different health conditions. This conditions included insomnia, pain, which eventually made viewing it similarly to opium as its common remedy.

Citation:

Zuardi, A. W. (2006). History of cannabis as a medicine: a review. Revista Brasileira de Psiquiatria, 28(2), 153–157. https://doi.org/10.1590/S1516-44462006000200015

-Joceline Carrillo

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1740: British Support for Hemp Cultivation in the Colonies 

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1740: British Support for Hemp Cultivation in the Colonies 

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Theme: Political Movement/ Economic policy

Summary: During the 1740s, it was strongly encouraged to the American colonist to grow hemp which comes from a cannabis plant. This all was a economic strategy to reduce reliance on imports. Hemps was a essential item, it would help make roles and sails. During this time colonist in Virginia and Maryland were required to grow it.

Citation:

Johnson, N. (2019). American weed: A history of cannabis cultivation in the United States. EchoGéo, (48). https://doi.org/10.4000/echogeo.17650

- Joceline C (May 2,2025)

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1750: No Cannabis Regulation in Colonial America 

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1750: No Cannabis Regulation in Colonial America 

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Theme: Drug Policies

During the 1750s, cannabis is unregulated and also used for hemp and even medicine. This caused it to be seen as a useful resource instead of a threat. Although later on in the 20th century this view of cannabis changed drastically.

Citation:

Montana State Legislature. (2010). The History of Medicinal Cannabis. https://archive.legmt.gov/content/Committees/Interim/2009_2010/Children_Family/Emerging-Issue/mmga-presentation-cannabis-history-aug2010.pdf

-Joceline Carrillo

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1760: Native American Herbal Medicine and Cannabis 

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1760: Native American Herbal Medicine and Cannabis 

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Theme: Racial Scapegoating/ Cultural Marginalization

Summary: During the 1760s, most Native American tribes were using plant based remedies, for example cannabis. They used this to treat conditions like digestive issues. It was also mentioned that Indigenous medicine knowledge was always ignored by European settlers, and this shows early signs and patterns of Cultural marginalization.

Citation:

Aggarwal, S. K., Carter, G. T., Sullivan, M. D., ZumBrunnen, C., Morrill, R., & Mayer, J. D. (2009). Medicinal use of cannabis in the United States: Historical perspectives, current trends, and future directions. Journal of Opioid Management, 5(3), 153–168. https://doi.org/10.5055/jom.2009.0016

-Joceline C. (May 2,2025)

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1770: Hemp Agriculture Value During the American Revolution 

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1770: Hemp Agriculture Value During the American Revolution 

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Theme: Economic Impact

Summary:

During the 1770s, it was the Revolution war and its when Hemp ( a type of cannabis) became really popular. This is better it was used to create ropes and uniforms etc. For example Colonial farmers, especially in Virginia and Maryland were growing hemp because they were told it could help them a lot financially. Its really interesting because cannabis was not viewed through a criminal lens

Citation:

Johnson, N. (2019). American weed: A history of cannabis cultivation in the United States. EchoGéo, (48). https://doi.org/10.4000/echogeo.17650

-Joceline C (May 2,2025)

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1772: Cannabis Appears in Colonial Trade records 

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1772: Cannabis Appears in Colonial Trade records 

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Theme: Economic Impact

Summary: During the early 1720s, there was records from the Colonial ports like Philadelphia show hemp being counted in shipments. These documents give us an idea of how important and needed hemp was during this time. Its role in trade was normalized and was far from being considered wrong. This shows us how cannabis was seen more as a economic strategy and not something they should worry about

Citation:

Johnson, N. (2019). American weed: A history of cannabis cultivation in the United States. EchoGéo, (48). https://doi.org/10.4000/echogeo.17650

-Joceline C (May 2, 2025)

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1775: Hemp Cultivation Expands to Kentucky 

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1775: Hemp Cultivation Expands to Kentucky 

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Theme: Economic impact/ Agricultural Expansion

Summary:

During the 1775s, help cultivation spread to Kentucky which marked a significant expansion of cannabis agriculture in Colonial America. Since Kentucky had fertile lands and good climate when it came to farming hemp it made it way easier. This expansion played a crucial role in supporting the colonial economy. this shows us how Hemp became a essential item for both civilian and military needs.

Citation:

Johnson, N. (2019). American weed: A history of cannabis cultivation in the United States. EchoGéo, (48). https://doi.org/10.4000/echogeo.17650

-Joceline C (May 2,2025)

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1778: Hemp Support the Revolutionary War Effort 

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1778: Hemp Support the Revolutionary War Effort 

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Theme: Economic Impact/ Military Supply

Summary:

During the 1778, hemp continued to be really important when it came to war. It also helps creating tents and other essential supplies that was used during war. During this time cannabis was still not seen as something that is criminalized.

Citation:

Zuardi, A. W. (2006). History of cannabis as a medicine: a review. Revista Brasileira de Psiquiatria, 28(2), 153–157. https://doi.org/10.1590/S1516-44462006000200015

-Joceline C (May 2,2025)

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1781: Colonial Press Continues Promoting Hemp Cultivation 

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1781: Colonial Press Continues Promoting Hemp Cultivation 

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Theme: Media Representation/ Economic Policy

Summary: During the 1781s, colonial newspapers were always promoting and publishing farming guides that continued to promote hemp as a cital crop. The Publications explained how to plant and grow hemp for economic growth during the final years of the Revolutionary War. All of this media coverage helped contributed how cannabis was seen as something really essential instead of something harmful to others.

Citation:

Aggarwal, S. K., Carter, G. T., Sullivan, M. D., ZumBrunnen, C., Morrill, R., & Mayer, J. D. (2009). Medicinal use of cannabis in the United States: Historical perspectives, current trends, and future directions. Journal of Opioid Management, 5(3), 153–168. https://doi.org/10.5055/jom.2009.0016

-Joceline C (May 2, 2025)

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1783: End of Revolution War and Cannabis as a Patriotic Crop

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1783: End of Revolution War and Cannabis as a Patriotic Crop

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Theme: Economic impact/ Political Transition

Summary:

During the 1783, its when the Revolution War came to an end, and Hemp has become widely known as an economic staple. This means that farmers to who grew Hemp to support the War were seen as contributors to American independence. With the formation of the United States, hemp was still not seen wrongly and continued to be legal and encouraged to crop. There was still no federal restrictions, and Cannabis had not become criminalized yet but it was respected.

Citation:

Johnson, N. (2019). American weed: A history of cannabis cultivation in the United States. EchoGéo, (48). https://doi.org/10.4000/echogeo.17650

-Joceline C (May 2 , 2025)

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In 1783, cannabis was mainly used for its industrial fibers, particularly hemp. At this time, it was vital for rope production and textiles in America. Rope productions was imperative for usage on ships, agriculture, and many other industrial purposes. Cannabis was not viewed as a taboo. The use of cannabis was accepted and viewed as essential in the industrial field.

Dooley, Myriah. 2020. “A History of Cannabis in the United States.” PROOF. Retrieved May 5, 2025 (https://proofcannabis.com/blogsource/2020/5/15/a-history-of-cannabis-in-the-united-states#:~:text=1600s%2D1900s:%20Three%20Hundred%20Years,was%20nothing%20taboo%20about%20cannabis.).

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In 1795, cannabis, primarily in the form of hemp, was widely used in America for industrial and medicinal purposes. The government also encouraged its cultivation, even making it legal tender in some states. Cannabis was included in traditional folk remedies and was sold in pharmacies without restrictions.

Anon. 2025. “The Complicated History of Cannabis in the US.” History.Com. Retrieved May 5, 2025 (https://www.history.com/articles/marijuana-criminalization-reefer-madness-history-flashback).

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In the 1800s, psychoactive cannabis use became a popular trend in France. It was being consumed in the form of hashish. During this time period, it also became very popular in the United States. Cannabis had previously been known for its medicinal properties, however, it also gained popularity for its mind-altering effects.

Crocq, Marc-Antoine. 2020. “History of Cannabis and the Endocannabinoid System.” Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience. Retrieved May 5, 2025 (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7605027/#:~:text=He%20described%20various%20preparations%20traditional,treat%20the%20plague%20in%20Egypt.&text=He%20experimented%20with%20cannabis%20upon,and%20abulia%20induced%20by%20cannabis.).

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During the early 1800s, cannabis in medicine was primarily used as a pain reliever and sleep aid. Dr. William O’Shaughnessy, an Irish physician, played a crucial role in studying cannabis’s medical properties. While working in India, he noticed the use of cannabis in traditional medicine and decided to explore its potential. He performed experiments and recorded its effectiveness in treating conditions like rheumatism, cholera, and epilepsy. His findings, published in 1839, brought cannabis medicine to the attention of the Western world, bringing out its use as a pain reliever and anti-convulsive. The plant’s soothing effects made it a popular choice among physicians seeking alternatives to opium, which came with severe side effects and addiction risks. Cannabis offered a safer, non-addictive option, attractive to both doctors and patients.

Acosta, Dr. Joaquin. 2024. “The Evolution of Cannabis Medicine in the 1800s: A Journey towards Healing.” Pharmtrue Las Cruces - Your Community Pharmacy & Cannabis Experts. Retrieved May 5, 2025 (https://pharmtrue.care/2024/07/24/the-evolution-of-cannabis-medicine-in-the-1800s-a-journey-towards-healing/).

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In the early 1800s, cannabis was generally legal and utilized for medicinal purposes in the United States. Hemp was an economic staple in some regions. It was a common ingredient in medicinal products and openly sold in pharmacies.

Anon. 2025. “Marijuana.” History.Com. Retrieved May 5, 2025 (https://www.history.com/articles/history-of-marijuana).

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Cannabis was a perfect scapegoat to explain increasing crime rates. Racial scapegoating is the practice of unfairly blaming a racial or ethnic group for societal issues. The process of this begins by misdirecting frustration and aggression towards a vulnerable group, even though they are not at fault for the situation. Some of the races targeted during the cannabis racial scapegoating are the Chinese laborers in the 1800s and Mexicans during the Great Depression.

Anon. n.d. Stop Aapi Hate National Report. Retrieved May 5, 2025 (https://stopaapihate.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/22-SAH-NationalReport-3.1.22-v9.pdf).

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1840: Cannabis Introduced to Western Medicine

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1840: Cannabis Introduced to Western Medicine

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Dr. William Shaughnessy publishes research on medicinal uses for cannabis after studying in India, he introduces this to Western Medicine. Dr. Shaughnessy promotes it as a treatment for pain, spasms, rheumatism, epilepsy, and more. Cannabis was being extracted into tinctures, resins, and oils, becoming more potent and easier to dose than the plant.

https://www.labmanager.com/the-history-of-medical-cannabis-22826

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The Club des Hasischins is active in Paris, where they experiment with certain drugs like cannabis. Writers such as Baudelaire, Dumas, and Gautier refer to cannabis/hashish as exotic, mind-expanding, and mystical in essays and stories. The Temperance ban is seen gaining traction, although they mostly call for a ban on alcohol and opium, cannabis is rarely mentioned. The Temperance movement sparks a growing cultural concern about moral decay and loss of self-control through intoxicants.

https://herbaldispatch.com/blogs/news/the-original-cannabis-club-tracing-the-history-of-les-club-des-hashischins

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Cannabis is officially added to the U.S. Pharmacopeia, which is a reference book for approved medical substances, and is used as a treatment for conditions like gout, tetanus, menstrual pain, and rabies. Pharmaceutical companies began producing standardized cannabis preparations for medical use, tinctures, which were made by soaking plant material in alcohol, pills, syrups, and ointments. "The Hasheesh Eater" by Fitz Hugh Ludlow was published, giving a firsthand account of cannabis use, describing euphoric and visionary experiences, popularizing curiosity about hashish among upper-class readers.

https://www.localroots.cc/a-brief-history-of-early-cannabis-use

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Development of combined remedies, which would be cannabis mixed with morphine or alcohol, increases popularity and effectiveness, but also risks dependency. Civil War medicine includes opioid-heavy painkillers, overshadowing cannabis, but it is still used in homeopathy and elite medicine. Media focus around this time is primarily focused on morphine addiction and alcohol abuse among soldiers. Cannabis receives little media attention, mostly neutral or scientific mentions in medical journals.

https://encyclopedia.1914-1918-online.net/article/drugs/

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Mexican and Caribbean immigrants bring with them the custom of smoking marijuana recreationally, especially in Texas and the Southwest. While not yet heavily racialized, the habit begins to be viewed as a "foreign" practice, separate from the "civilized" use of medicinal cannabis. Health reformers and moral crusaders started questioning the safety of unregulated patent medicines. Concerns about "snake oil" salesmen rise, and cannabis is sometimes included in mystery tonics.

https://journals.openedition.org/echogeo/17650

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Companies like Parke-Davis and Squibb produce standardized cannabis extracts, pills, and syrups, making self-medication more common. Chemical refinement techniques allow for better preservation and potency control as well. In border states, especially Texas and California, white citizens began to link marijuana smoking with Mexican immigrants, fostering the early stages of xenophobic drug rhetoric. Laws against public intoxication begin to mention marijuana in some regional ordinances.

https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/dope/etc/cron.html

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The Progressive Era saw a rise in public health advocacy, consumer protection, and urban reform. Advocates are demanding government regulation of medicine and drugs. Temperance leaders, now more organized, see all intoxicants, not just alcohol, as a threat to family and national morality. Magazines and newspapers start publishing cautionary stories about mysterious foreign drugs, often portraying users as morally weak or criminal. Cannabis still flies under the radar, but stories warning about Mexican "dope smokers" begin appearing in local media in the Southwest.

https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/dope/etc/cron.html

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Cannabis based products like Chlorodyne and Bromidia, which often contained opium, alcohol, and cannabis, are sold nationwide. These medicines are highly addictive due to the mixing of substances, but are still legal and easily accessible. Politicians and local law enforcement in border states began publicly linking cannabis smoking with Mexican immigrants and criminality, which set the stage for anti-marijuana laws. Newspapers begin printing occasional stories linking marijuana with "dangerous" foreigners, often relying on racialized fear tactics. Cannabis is now being portrayed as mysterious and threatening, despite its legal medical use

https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/dope/etc/cron.html

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The Pure Food and Drug Act is passed. This act enforce the  labeling of ingredients including cannabis in over-the-counter medicines. During this time cannabis is legal but unregulated. The act invited a sense of awareness and individuals  began to shift their public opinions and policies regarding cannabis.

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Kantor, A. F. (1976). Upton Sinclair and the Pure Food and Drugs Act of 1906." I aimed at the public's heart and by accident I hit it in the stomach". American Journal of Public Health, 66(12), 1202-1205.

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Following the Mexican Revolution, Mexican immigrants fleeing from poverty and injustices bring recreational cannabis use into the U.S. Anti-immigrant sentiment fuels negative perceptions and blame Mexicans for the introduction and use of cannabis. The recreational use of cannabis, was seen as “immoral” by many hostile Americans against immigration.

Hill, J. A. (2024). Cultures, practices and politics of cannabis consumption in 20th century colonial and dictatorial Spain (1920-1980) (Doctoral dissertation, The University of St Andrews).

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The Federal Bureau of Narcotics was created under the U.S. Treasury Department. Harry J. Anslinger became the first commissioner and led the FBN until 1962. He soon expanded the agency’s efforts to include cannabis. Anslinger took a moralistic and racially charged stance, launching campaigns that claimed cannabis caused insanity, violence, and moral decay. He directed efforts toward spreading racially motivated propaganda, linking cannabis use to Mexican and Black communities. This fueled widespread fear and gained significant support from the public.

Solomon, R. (2020). Racism and its effect on cannabis research. Cannabis and cannabinoid research, 5(1), 2-5.

https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/pdf/10.1089/can.2019.0063

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The Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 was the first U.S. federal cannabis law, effectively criminalizing cannabis through heavy taxation and regulation. The law required individuals and businesses to register and pay a tax in order to legally grow, sell, or possess marijuana. Propaganda, often racially charged, was used as a tactic to gain political and public support. As a result, many individuals were jailed not for drug-related crimes, but for tax violations associated with cannabis.

Bryant, A. R. (2016). Taxing marijuana: Earmarking tax revenue from legalized marijuana. Ga. St. UL Rev., 33, 659.

https://bit.ly/3SktDwu

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The first in-depth scientific study on cannabis in the U.S. was commissioned by New York City Mayor Fiorello La Guardia and conducted by the New York Academy of Medicine. The findings stated that there was no evidence that cannabis use led to violence, insanity, or criminal behavior. Furthermore, the report concluded that marijuana use did not lead to physical addiction, delinquency, or major health problems. It also found that cannabis was more commonly used in lower-income communities but rejected the notion that it posed a significant social threat. Despite its scientific findings, the research was dismissed and largely ignored, as federal policy continued to be shaped by fear and propaganda.

LaGuardia, F. (1944). The Laguardia Committee Report New York, USA (1944).

https://rodneybarnett.net/PDF/Laguardia%20Report%201944.pdf

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The Boggs Act established mandatory minimum prison sentences for drug offenses, including cannabis. Under this law, first-time cannabis possession carried a minimum sentence of 2 years and up to 5 years, along with a fine of up to $2,000. The act expanded the federal government’s authority in the war on drugs, allowing for broader enforcement. Cannabis was categorized alongside much harder drugs like heroin and cocaine, reflecting a zero-tolerance approach. As a result, the prison population grew significantly due to the harsh penalties imposed on non-violent drug offenses.

Lawrence, R. G. (2019). Pot in pans: A history of eating cannabis. Rowman & Littlefield.

https://bit.ly/4iLiNuj

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The Act increased penalties for drug offenses by imposing even harsher mandatory minimum sentences, including for cannabis-related crimes. It eliminated opportunities such as parole, probation, and suspended sentences for most drug offenses, meaning offenders were required to serve full prison terms. A first-time conviction for marijuana possession carried a minimum sentence of 2 years and up to 10 years, along with fines of up to $20,000. Repeat offenders, even for non-violent marijuana charges, could receive life imprisonment under this law. The Act reflected a strong push for a strict, zero-tolerance approach to drug use.

Khadraoui, N. (2019). Comparing the anti-drug abuse act of 1986 to the boggs act of 1951 and the narcotic control act of 1956 in levels of severity. The Young Researcher, 3(1), 116-128.

http://www.theyoungresearcher.com/papers/TYR_V3_N1.pdf#page=118

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Marijuana becomes a symbol of the counterculture movement. Troops in the Vietnam War utilized Marijuana as a form of coping with stress, trauma from the war, and boredom. Marijuana was often easier to access than alcohol leading to increased usage. Increased usage begins negative attitudes toward the drug.

Lynch, P. (2024, May 14). How soldiers turned to marijuana during the Vietnam War. WayofLeaf. https://wayofleaf.com/cannabis/education/marijuana-during-the-vietnam-war

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President Nixon signs the Controlled Substances Act, classifying marijuana as a Schedule I drug, which is the most restrictive category. This Act would then launch the War on Drugs.

Martin, S. C. (2016, April 20). A brief history of marijuana law in America. Time. https://time.com/4298038/marijuana-history-in-america/

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The Controlled Substances Act would lay the foundation and set the stage for the War on Drugs. This would eventually increase criminalization and unjustly impact minority communities.

Martin, S. C. (2016, April 20). A brief history of marijuana law in America. Time. https://time.com/4298038/marijuana-history-in-america/

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The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) was created to enforce the nation's drug policies, which included marijuana prohibition.

Drug Enforcement Administration. (n.d.). DEA Anniversary. U.S. Department of Justice. Retrieved April 13, 2025, from https://www.dea.gov/highlight-topics/dea-anniversary

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Stemming from the War on Drugs, there became a rise of mandatory minimum sentences for drug related offenses, which included marijuana. This would contribute to mass incarceration rates widely affecting Black and Latino communities.

Taifa, N. (2021, May 10). Race, mass incarceration, and the disastrous war on drugs. Brennan Center for Justice. https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/analysis-opinion/race-mass-incarceration-and-disastrous-war-drugs

Human Rights Watch. (2000). United States - Punishment and prejudice: Racial disparities in the war on drugs. Retrieved from https://www.hrw.org/reports/2000/usa/Rcedrg00.htm

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The Anti Drug Abuse Act marked a major increase for criminalization stemming from the War on Drugs. The act would significantly increase federal penalties for drug offenses, of which included marijuana. This would create harsher punishments for drug offenses, including marijuana usage, which would greatly affect communities of color.

Equal Justice Initiative. (n.d.). October 27, 1986: Federal Anti-Drug Abuse Act Signed, Creating Racially Biased 100 to 1 Crack/Powder Cocaine Disparity. Equal Justice Initiative. Retrieved April 13, 2025, from https://calendar.eji.org/racial-injustice/oct/27

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1990s: Popularizing Cannabis Vaporization 

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1990s: Popularizing Cannabis Vaporization 

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Eagle Bill Amato helps popularize the idea of vaporizing marijuana as an alternative to combustion, noting its potential to reduce harmful byproducts when the drug is smoked. His efforts played a critical role in shifting public perception and promoting vaporization as a healthier consumption method.

Equal420. (2005, June 10). Eagle Bill Amato: Vaporizer pioneer. Equal Rights 4 All. Retrieved from https://equalrights4all.us/eagle-bill-amato-vaporizer-pioneer/

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California becomes the first state to legalize marijuana usage for medicinal purposes. This would assist cancer and AIDS patients while also igniting nationwide medical marijuana reform.

Martin, S. C. (2016, April 20). A brief history of marijuana law in America. Time. https://time.com/4298038/marijuana-history-in-america/

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The film is a "stoner" comedy that portrays marijuana use in a lighthearted approach. The film helped shift public perception of marijuana from being seen as a dangerous drug to something more relaxing and recreational. This would also contribute to shifting how marijuana users were viewed. The shift would alter marijuana users from being viewed less as threats and more laid back and harmless.

Orlikoff, A. (2023, November 8). The fascinating relationship between cannabis & movies. Planet 13 Las Vegas. https://www.planet13lasvegas.com/2023/11/08/fascinating-relationship-between-cannabis-and-movies/

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Early 2000s: A New Era: Higher THC Marijuana Strains 

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Early 2000s: A New Era: Higher THC Marijuana Strains 

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In the early 2000s, cannabis growers began developing strains with significantly higher THC levels, altering the user experience and raising concerns among health experts and policymakers about the potential risks.

National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2024, July 16). Cannabis potency data. https://nida.nih.gov/research/research-data-measures-resources/cannabis-potency-data

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The film Pineapple Express is released in August 2008. The film is a stoner packed action comedy which depicted marijuana use as a central theme of the plot. The film brought cannabis culture into mainstream media in the form of film. While marijuana was still stigmatized, the film played a role into normalizing marijuana usage in pop culture, influencing public view which would eventually assist with marijuana legalization in the future years.

Taylor, M. (2020, August 6). How ‘Pineapple Express’ changed the stoner comedy and weed culture for good. MEL Magazine. https://melmagazine.com/en-us/story/pineapple-express-movie-stoner-comedy

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The Obama Administration issues the Ogden Memo. This would instruct federal law enforcement not to prioritize prosecuting medical marijuana users in states where it is legal. This memo would allow states with medical marijuana laws to regulate the drug without the interference of Federal officials or authority, despite the drug remaining illegal under the Federal level. This would mark more state autonomy in marijuana regulation.

Ogden, D. W. (2009, October 19). Memorandum for selected United States attorneys on investigations and prosecutions in states authorizing the medical use of marijuana. U.S. Department of Justice. https://www.justice.gov/opa/blog/memorandum-selected-united-state-attorneys-investigations-and-prosecutions-states

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2012: CO & WA Legalize Recreational Marijuana Use

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2012: CO & WA Legalize Recreational Marijuana Use

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Colorado and Washington become the first states to legalize recreational marijuana use. Voters would pass Amendment 64 (CO) and Initiative 502 (WA) in allowing adults (21+) usage of the drug.

Lugo, G., & Guardian staff. (2012, November 7). Marijuana ballot measures: US voters send mixed message on pot.The Guardian.https://www.theguardian.com/world/2012/nov/07/marijuana-ballot-initiatives-colorado-legalization

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Expanding from the Ogden Memo, the U.S Department of Justice issues the Cole Memo. The Cole Memo states that the federal government will not interfere with states' legal marijuana operations so long as they follow specific guidelines such as keeping marijuana away from minors, gangs, cartels, etc.

Cole, J. M. (2013, August 29). Guidance Regarding Marijuana Enforcement. U.S. Department of Justice. https://www.justice.gov/iso/opa/resources/3052013829132756857467.pdf​

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Congress pass the Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment law, which prevents the federal government from utilizing funds to interfere with state medical marijuana programs. This step would respect state laws and protect medical marijuana users from facing legal consequences at the hands of the federal government.

White, D. (2015, October 20). DEA must stop interfering with legal medical marijuana dispensaries, federal court rules. Time. https://time.com/4080110/dea-medical-marijuana-california-ruling/

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2016: Four New States Legalize Recreational Marijuana Use

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2016: Four New States Legalize Recreational Marijuana Use

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California, Massachusetts, Nevada, and Maine, approve legalizing recreational use of marijuana for adults (21+). CA's Proposition 64 had significant impacts as it was the most popular state in the U.S.'s largest market to legalize marijuana use.

Bruzzo, W. W. (2024, September 17). The impact of Proposition 64 on California’s drug laws. Law Offices of William W. Bruzzo. https://www.bruzzolaw.com/blog/the-impact-of-proposition-64-on-californias-drug-laws/

Steinmetz, K. (2016, November 10). How the 2016 election became a watershed for weed. Time. https://time.com/4557472/marijuana-2016-states-legalized/

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California begins legal sales of marijuana. This would spark a major milestone in the National and Global Cannabis Industry and legal market.

Waldrop, T. (2018, January 2). Californians line up to legally buy recreational pot. CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2018/01/01/us/california-recreational-marijuana-sales/index.html

Young, R. (Host). (2018, January 1). Legal recreational marijuana sales begin in California. Here & Now. NPR. https://www.npr.org/2018/01/01/574975053

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President Biden offers legal forgiveness to thousands of individuals convicted of noncomplex simple marijuana possession under the federal law and Washington D.C. law. In doing so, he advises governors follow similar acts at the state level in addressing these concerns.

Miller, Z. (2023, December 22). Biden pardons thousands convicted of marijuana possession charges. AP News. https://apnews.com/article/biden-marijuana-pardons-clemency-02abde991a05ff7dfa29bfc3c74e9d64

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2023: MO & MD Legalize Recreational Marijuana Use

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2023: MO & MD Legalize Recreational Marijuana Use

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Following 2012 and 2016 events, Missouri and Maryland legalize recreational marijuana use as well. MO and MD would become the 20th and 21st states to legalize marijuana for recreational purposes. This would signify a turning point where nearly half the country had adopted similar values and policies on marijuana.

Pereira, I. (2022, November 9). Recreational marijuana legalized in 2 states, rejected in 3 in 2022 election referendums. ABC News. https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/recreational-marijuana-legalized-states-rejected/story?id=92683852

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Mid 2023: Reclassifying Marijuana under the Federal Drug Policy

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Mid 2023: Reclassifying Marijuana under the Federal Drug Policy

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The U.S Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) suggest reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III, a major change from President Nixon's implementation of his 1970s Controlled Substances Act. This would signal a major shift in federal drug policy as many policies have been altered since earlier policies and regulations have been made. This change would ease restrictions and open various avenues to scientific research and pharmaceutical development.

Choi, J. (2023, August 30). HHS sends recommendation to DEA on rescheduling marijuana. The Hill. https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/4179304-hhs-sends-recommendation-to-dea-on-rescheduling-marijuana/

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The Senate continues debates on the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (CAOA). This bill would federally decriminalize marijuana and reform communities affected by previous implemented drug policies.

Booker, C. A., Schumer, C. E., & Wyden, R. L. (2024, May 1). Booker, Schumer, Wyden lead reintroduction of Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act, legislation to end federal prohibition of cannabis. U.S. Senator Cory Booker. https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-schumer-wyden-lead-reintroduction-of-cannabis-administration-and-opportunity-act-legislation-to-end-federal-prohibition-of-cannabis

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The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is due to issue a final ruling in reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III since the mid 2023 suggestion from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

If a positive shift is implemented, this change would significantly impact marijuana in opening doors to pharmaceutical development and medical research. This approach if implemented will make marijuana more accessible for recreational and therapeutic use along with changing the innovation of marijuana in healthcare. The legal landscape of cannabis will drastically change if these rulings are adopted.

Gelsi, S. (2024, May 22). Cannabis companies continue federal legalization push despite drug’s rescheduling. MarketWatch. https://www.marketwatch.com/story/cannabis-companies-continue-federal-legalization-push-despite-marijuanas-rescheduling-b118daea

Malyshev, A., & Ganley, S. (2024, September 11). Update on the DEA's efforts to reschedule cannabis: What you need to know. Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/update-deas-efforts-reschedule-cannabis-what-you-need-know-2024-09-11/

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Currently, 39 states have legalized marijuana for medicinal purposes, while only 24 have legalized the utilization of the drug for recreational purposes.

Christian. (2025, March 5). Marijuana laws by state for 2025: Where is cannabis legal? Pot Monk. Retrieved April 13, 2025, from https://potmonk.com/marijuana-laws-by-state-for-2025-where-is-cannabis-legal/