Answer:
1. The history of marijuana and hemp use dates back thousands of years. Throughout various civilizations, marijuana/hemp has been utilized for its versatile properties. Some of its past uses include:
- Medicinal Purposes: Marijuana has a long history of medicinal use in different cultures. Ancient Chinese, Indian, and Egyptian civilizations used marijuana as a treatment for various ailments such as pain, inflammation, and digestive issues. It was also used as an anaesthetic in surgical procedures.
- Fiber and Textiles: Hemp fibres derived from the cannabis plant have been used for centuries to make fabrics, ropes, and textiles. Hemp fibres are strong, durable, and resistant to mildew, making them suitable for making clothing, sails, and other products.
- Paper Production: Hemp has been used as a source of paper for centuries. In ancient China, hemp fibres were used to create the world's earliest paper. The strength and durability of hemp fibres made it an ideal material for producing parchment, books, and documents.
- Construction Material: Hemp fibres have also been used in construction. Hempcrete, a mixture of hemp fibres and lime, has been employed to make sustainable and eco-friendly building materials. The fibres provide strength and insulation properties to the construction material.
2. Demonizing marijuana as a substance has been made possible and effective through various factors:
- Cultural and Societal Factors: Throughout history, certain cultural and societal beliefs have associated marijuana with negative connotations. These beliefs may stem from moral or religious views, and they influence public opinion and perception of the drug.
- Political and Economic Factors: Marijuana has been the subject of political and economic interests. Demonizing marijuana has often served political agendas, allowing politicians to appear tough on crime or to cater to specific interest groups. Additionally, industries such as pharmaceuticals, timber, and alcohol have had economic motivations to suppress competition from hemp and marijuana industries.
- Propaganda and Misinformation: The spread of misinformation and propaganda about marijuana has played a significant role in demonizing the substance. Misleading narratives about the dangers of marijuana have been used to create fear and sway public opinion.
- Racial and Social Bias: Historically, racial and social biases have contributed to the demonization of marijuana. In the United States, marijuana was associated with marginalized communities, particularly African Americans and Hispanics. These racial biases fueled the stigmatization and criminalization of marijuana use.
- Legislative and Legal Actions: Demonizing marijuana has been an effective tool to pass legislation and enforce strict drug policies. By portraying marijuana as a dangerous and harmful substance, lawmakers have been able to justify criminal penalties and restrictions on its use, cultivation, and distribution.
Step-by-step explanation: