The Mysterious History Of 'Marijuana'

Overview

• Focus: Exploration of the term "marijuana" and its historical, cultural, and racial implications.
• Background: Marijuana's naming and perception have been influenced by race, ethnicity, and political motives.

Historical Context

• Pre-1900s:
  • Cannabis used for medical and industrial purposes.
  • Known as "cannabis" in reports.
• Post-1900s:
  • Term "marijuana" became popular in the U.S.
  • Anti-cannabis sentiments were tied to racial and anti-immigrant attitudes.

Racial Implications

• Early 20th Century:
  • Anti-cannabis campaigns emphasized the drug’s "Mexican-ness" to incite anti-immigrant sentiments.
  • Police in Texas and California linked marijuana use to violence and crime among Mexican and immigrant communities.
  • U.S. federal restrictions began in 1937, with arguments often racially charged.

Cultural Perception

• Eric Schlosser's "Reefer Madness":
  • Mexican immigration post-1910 Revolution linked to marijuana use.
  • Associated with violence and crime in media portrayals.
• Mexican Influence:
  • Mexico had its own prohibition on marijuana in 1920.

Scientific Misunderstandings

• Effects of Cannabis:
  • Historical accounts described violent behaviors not typically associated with modern marijuana use.
  • Richard DeGrandpre’s "cult of pharmacology" suggests effects vary due to cultural and psychological factors.
  • "Drug, set, and setting" influence user experiences.

Name Origins and Global Influence

• Name Variations:
  • Pre-1900: "cannabis"
  • Post-1900: "marihuana" (Spanish spelling) and "marijuana".
  • Various global terms: "ganja", "bhang", "hashish".
• Potential Origins of "Marihuana":
  • Chinese "ma ren hua".
  • Spanish "mejorana (chino)".
  • Bantu "ma-kaa".

Conclusion

• The history of marijuana is complex and intertwined with racial, cultural, and geopolitical factors.
• Understanding marijuana's history provides insights into its modern perception and legal status.