Timeline of Cannabis

1976
Cannabis is decriminalised in the Netherlands

1975
America establishes the Compassionate Use programme for medical use of marijuana

1970s
Under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, cannabis is classified as a class B drug. It becomes illegal to grow, produce, possess, or supply the drug

1970s
Cannabis cultivated on a broad scale in Afghanistan

1966
The Moroccan government attempts to purge cannabis growers from Rif Mountains.

1937
Cannabis made federally illegal in the U.S.

1936
The American Government released "Reefer Madness," a sensationalist docudrama about the dangers of marijuana. The movie remains a cult classic

1935
Chinese government moves to end all cannabis cultivation

1928
Recreational use of cannabis is banned in Britain

1915-1927
Moves are made to outlaw recreational use in USA

1890
Greek government prohibits importation, cultivation, and use of hashish

1856
British government tax cannabis trade in India

1840
In America, medicinal preparations based on cannabis become available


2004-1800 | 1700 AD-6000 BC

1700s
Hashish becomes a major trade item between Central Asia and South Asia

1271-1295
Marco Polo reports tales of hashish use

1200s
Hashish smoking is popular throughout the Middle East

900-1000
Scholars debate the pros and cons of eating hashish

500-600
The Jewish Talmud mentions the use of cannabis

70
The use of cannabis is mentioned as a Roman medical remedy

500 BC
Hemp is introduced into Northern Europe

700-300 BC
Ancient Kazakhstan tribes leave cannabis seeds as offerings in royal tombs

1200 BC
Cannabis is mentioned in the Hindu sacred text

2727 BC
First written record of cannabis use as medicine

4000 BC
Textiles made of hemp are used in China

6000 BC
Cannabis seeds used for food in China