Timeline by Cameron Contreras

War on Drugs

cdc40024 — 2025-03-03 18:14:03 UTC

This timeline explores key events, policies, and media representations of the War on Drugs. Using insights from the film, we analyze how drug laws have disproportionately affected different social classes over time.

1971: Nixon Declares the War on Drugs

cdc40024 — 2025-03-03 18:14:56 UTC

President Richard Nixon officially declared drug abuse as 'public enemy number one.' This led to strict anti-drug policies that disproportionately targeted marginalized communities.

1986 – Anti-Drug Abuse Act & Crack vs. Cocaine Sentencing

cdc40024 — 2025-03-03 18:15:26 UTC

The Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 introduced mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses. Crack cocaine—primarily used in lower-income communities—carried a punishment 100 times harsher than powder cocaine, used by wealthier individuals

1990s – Media & Public Perception Shift

cdc40024 — 2025-03-03 18:15:50 UTC

The media reinforced stereotypes about drug use. Films and news coverage depicted crack users as criminals, while those addicted to prescription opioids were seen as victims. This shaped public perception and policy.

2000's – Policy Reforms Begin

cdc40024 — 2025-03-03 18:17:18 UTC

As the negative effects of mass incarceration became clear, reforms began. The Fair Sentencing Act of 2010 reduced the crack-to-cocaine sentencing disparity from 100:1 to 18:1, but significant inequalities remain.

Present Day – The Opioid Crisis & Changing Views

cdc40024 — 2025-03-03 18:17:41 UTC

Today, opioid addiction is treated as a public health crisis, while crack users were historically criminalized. The shift in policy shows how race and class influence how society responds to drug epidemics.