The Roots of Relaxation: A History of Cannabis Use

Pot Culture Magazine/Art Dept. 

Welcome back to our series, "The Complete Guide to Being a Stoner." In this second installment, we dive into the rich tapestry of cannabis history. From its ancient beginnings to its pivotal role in the counterculture movement, we'll trace the journey of cannabis and how it has shaped societies and perceptions across the globe.

Ancient Beginnings: Cannabis has a storied past, stretching back thousands of years. Ancient texts from China, dating as far back as 5000 years, describe the use of cannabis in traditional medicine. Similarly, in India, cannabis was a key component in Ayurvedic practices. This historical perspective sets the stage for understanding how deeply cannabis is rooted in human civilization.

Cannabis in the Middle Ages: Moving through history, we find cannabis traveling across continents. In the Middle Ages, it was used predominantly for its fibers, contributing to the flourishing of maritime trade through hemp ropes and sails.

The Age of Discovery: Cannabis took on new roles in the Age of Discovery. Travelers and explorers spread its use across the Americas and Africa, where it was adopted both for its psychoactive properties and for industrial purposes.

The 20th Century and Prohibition: The 20th century marked a significant shift. The early 1900s saw cannabis becoming entangled in political and racial tensions, leading to the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 in the United States, effectively marking the beginning of the cannabis prohibition era.

The Counterculture Movement: The 1960s and 1970s witnessed a cultural revolution, with cannabis at its heart. The counterculture movement, epitomized by figures like Allen Ginsberg and Bob Marley, championed cannabis as a symbol of peace, love, and rebellion against the status quo.

The Shifting Legal Landscape: Fast forward to the present, and we see a significant shift in the legal status of cannabis. Many countries and states are moving towards decriminalization and legalization, recognizing the medical benefits and considering the social implications of prohibition.

The history of cannabis is as complex as it is long. From an ancient medicinal herb to a modern-day symbol of cultural and political change, cannabis has played many roles in human history. As we continue to grapple with its place in society, understanding its past is crucial to shaping its future.

The journey of cannabis is far from over. In our next post, we will explore the nuances of cannabis strains and how to select the right one for you. Stay tuned and join us as we continue to unfold the layers of stoner culture.