Tradition of smoking marihuana was established

Cannabis was not legally available in the United States until the turn of the twentieth century, when it was regarded as a little-used substance. With the influx of Mexican immigrants, a tradition of smoking marihuana was established. As fear of Mexican immigrants increased, hysterical claims were made about the drug, and it was soon replaced by the Anglicized term marijuana. Then, in the 1980s, many states banned the drug, including California. Since then, however, the number of Americans who are legally permitted to use pot has steadily grown.

During this time, marijuana was illegal in the United States. This law, introduced by Anslinger in 1937, deemed marijuana an illegal drug and could lead to a year in prison and a minimum fine of $1,000. Despite the legalization of marijuana, however, the drug’s continued stigma still makes it difficult for consumers to buy it. As a result, many people remain fearful of using the drug, a fear that has been reinforced by the Great Depression.

In 1971, President Nixon took an unwavering stance against marijuana, but a growing consensus was emerging that harsh criminal punishments for possession and use were contrary to the public interest. Medical authorities were questioning the logic behind harsh anti-marijuana laws. Supporters of legalizing small amounts of marijuana included the National Parent Teacher Association Congress, the American Medical Association, the American Bar Association, the Committee for Economic Development, and the Consumers Union.