by Mikalyn

Created on: January 25, 2009   Last Updated: August 06, 2011

Marijuana wasn't even noticed by Americans until the 1930's. Since that time our nation has spent billions of dollars on this little plant; they've deployed thousands of men toward stopping it; they've taken countless hours discussing it. There are still prisoners behind bars for marijuana while card holder's puff smoke into the faces of the police. Inspiring and supporting a culture of its own that's unlike any other narcotic we know, the question remains...to legalize or not to legalize? There are many people who benefit from cannabis every day of their lives. From cancer and glaucoma patients to depression sufferers; even people with eating disorders. A lot of these benefits weren't discovered or recognized until the 21st century.

 In 1914 a law was commissioned in El Paso outlawing the public use of Marijuana. Mexican immigrants had brought it from the south. Not as a narcotic, but a relaxing smoke after a hard days work as they had for centuries prior. According to PBS, there were 500 operating "tea pads" in New York City in 1930. These were lounges where people could purchase marijuana. Increased taxes on alcohol made Marijuana an appealing alternative in those days and it was available at most convenience stores. When the great depression hit, people began to grow resentful and fearful of Mexican immigrants and associated the use of Marijuana with them.

Out of all marijuana beneficiates there is one man who benefited in a unique way from the weed. Harry James Anslinger was Assistant Prohibition Commissioner in the early 20th century. He had an iron fist and truly believed that we could not achieve a healthy nation if any of them used drugs and alcohol. In response to the growing pressure from the public, the federal government created the Federal Bureau of Narcotics and appointed Anslinger its Commissioner.

Anslinger saw an opportunity as Marijuana began to make its way into cities like New Orleans, popularizing itself in the lounge and music scene. He began to push for funding, claiming that the drug is a danger and a threat to America. He tried to convince the states to devote more of their funding toward the war on drugs. Only nine legislators originally signed on to Anslingers plan and he realized he needed something more aggressive. His campaign was fierce, and devastating to Marijuana users everywhere. He claimed that he made crazed murderers of people; that one puff would make you insane. He led the public into believing that

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