Cannabis and the Founding Fathers

George Washington Hemp Farmer, by Aia Leu, 2013

As you celebrate the 4th of July, let's dive into some intriguing facts that combine our nation's history and the evolving cannabis landscape. Did you know that hemp, a variety of the cannabis plant, played a significant role in the early days of America? George Washington was a hemp cultivator, recognizing its versatility and economic potential. He grew hemp on one of his many farms using it for common things like creating rope, thread for sewing sacks, canvas, and for repairing the seine nets used at fisheries, among many other uses. This little-known fact highlights the long-standing relationship between cannabis and one of our nation's founding figures. Hemp was seen as such a crucial substance in colonial America that even John Adams mentions its priority ahead of a “Declaration of Independency.”

The Prohibition Era: From Alcohol to Cannabis

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Another little known fact is that during the Prohibition era in the 1920s, one effect the alcohol ban had on society is that it led to a surge in cannabis consumption. People turned to cannabis as a substitute for alcohol and it was widely viewed as a way to relax, socialize, and unwind. It even became a symbol of rebellion against the restrictive laws of prohibition and a means of finding solace and enjoyment amidst the social unrest.

Cannabis use during the Prohibition era was not limited to recreational purposes. Like today, many individuals relied on cannabis for its medicinal properties, using it to alleviate various ailments and discomforts. Its therapeutic potential was recognized even then, further fueling its popularity and acceptance within certain communities that persisted through generations, until the war on drugs began and it became subject to public scrutiny.

After the Prohibition era came to an end and alcohol once again became legal, cannabis faced its own prohibition with the passage of the Controlled Substances Act in 1970. However, times have changed, and attitudes toward cannabis have evolved significantly since then. As you know, in 2012, voters in Colorado and Washington approved ballot measures to legalize the recreational use and the sale of cannabis, making the states the first in the U.S. to do so. Most recently, the House passed a marijuana decriminalization bill on April 1, 2022 and months later, several senators – including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer – introduced the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act, which would federally decriminalize weed, as reported by Marijuana Moment.  At the time of this post, the bill’s future in the Senate is uncertain, but many remain optimistic of cannabis' eventual full legalization on the federal level.

From the rebellious days of the Prohibition era to present-day celebrations, cannabis has continually shaped our culture, being featured in popular music like artist Justin Biebers' hit song "Peaches" and movies like Ice Cube's film franchise "Friday" (1995) adding a unique dimension to the plant and its usage. Whether you choose to enjoy cannabis on the 4th or not, I think we can all appreciate the freedom to choose how we celebrate. From the SGF Delivery team to you, we hope you have a 'Mary' 4th of July!