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Hemp might just be one of the most misunderstood plants in American history. It’s had a rollercoaster ride, from being a staple in colonial life to facing harsh criminalization in the 20th century. But today, hemp is making a comeback, and it’s important to look back at its past to understand why it’s having such a moment. So, let’s take a journey through the interesting and sometimes strange history of hemp in America, with some fun facts sprinkled in!
Hemp: A Deep-Rooted Tradition
Believe it or not, hemp is not a newcomer to the United States. It’s been here for centuries, playing a key role long before it became a controversial topic. Early colonists planted hemp in the 1600s for its tough, durable fibers, which they used to make ropes, sails, clothing, and even paper. Hemp was so valuable that some colonies accepted it as legal tender and people even paid taxes with it!
Farmers in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts didn’t just grow hemp, they had to. The government mandated its cultivation because it was so essential to daily life. George Washington himself cultivated hemp at Mount Vernon for over 30 years, recognizing its economic importance. This wasn’t just any crop, it was a cornerstone of early American industry.
Hemp’s Role in the Revolutionary War
Here’s a fun tidbit: hemp played a crucial role during the American Revolution! The U.S. Navy relied on hemp to produce ropes and sails, making it an essential wartime material. Without it, American ships wouldn’t have had the supplies needed for naval trade or combat.
To support the war effort, the government encouraged American farmers to grow hemp, turning it into a symbol of patriotism and self-reliance. Founding fathers like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson openly promoted its industrial and agricultural value. Hemp wasn’t just useful, it was part of America’s fight for independence.
The Dark Turn: The Marihuana Tax Act of 1937
Fast forward to the 20th century, and hemp’s journey takes a sharp and disappointing turn. In 1937, the U.S. passed the Marihuana Tax Act, which effectively criminalized cannabis, including hemp. This marked the beginning of a long and troubled history of cannabis prohibition in the country, and it has had lasting impacts that are still felt today.
The push to criminalize cannabis had little to do with its dangers and everything to do with fear and racial prejudice. Harry Anslinger, the first commissioner of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, led the charge, using racially charged rhetoric to tie cannabis use to Mexican immigrants and African Americans. His claims about cannabis leading to violence and crime lacked scientific backing—they were pure fear-mongering.
As a result, cannabis and hemp by association were criminalized, and this had devastating consequences for many marginalized communities, particularly African Americans and Latinos, who were disproportionately arrested. This wasn’t about public safety—it was a racially motivated crackdown disguised as policy.
Hemp for Victory: A Surprising Reversal
Just when you think hemp’s story couldn’t get any more confusing, the U.S. government pulled an about-face during World War II. In 1942, after losing access to Manila hemp due to the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, the U.S. desperately needed hemp fibers for war materials.
The government launched the “Hemp for Victory” campaign, urging farmers to grow hemp again. The Department of Agriculture even released a film, also called Hemp for Victory, to promote its benefits. Thousands of acres of hemp sprouted across the country as farmers answered the call to support the war effort.
But, as is often the case in U.S. history, this support didn’t last long. Once World War II ended and synthetic fibers became more common, the government quickly turned its back on hemp again. Officials suppressed the Hemp for Victory film, erasing this chapter from public memory. The government’s inconsistent stance on hemp proved just how political and contradictory its policies could be.
The War on Drugs: A Dark Era for Hemp
After World War II, hemp and cannabis faced some of their darkest days. In the 1950s and 1960s, the U.S. ramped up its “War on Drugs,” vilifying cannabis and linking it to rebellion, counterculture, and racial minorities.
Despite hemp’s many industrial uses, the government classified it alongside marijuana as a controlled substance, effectively wiping out legal hemp production. This made research and cultivation nearly impossible, shutting down an industry with centuries of history. For decades, hemp advocates fought to bring attention to its benefits, but government policies kept the plant in the shadows.
The 21st Century: Hemp’s Big Comeback
In 2018, something incredible happened. The U.S. passed the Farm Bill, legalizing hemp cultivation for the first time in decades. This monumental shift marked a turning point for hemp’s future.
Hemp quickly re-entered industries ranging from textiles to biofuels, proving its versatility and economic value. CBD oil, derived from hemp, skyrocketed in popularity, drawing attention to the plant’s potential health benefits. What had been criminalized for years was now at the forefront of wellness and sustainability.
Hemp is also seen as an eco-friendly alternative to many traditional crops. It grows quickly, requires fewer pesticides, and offers a sustainable solution for industries seeking greener alternatives. As the world focuses on sustainability, hemp’s resurgence couldn’t have come at a better time.
Hemp’s Complex, Ongoing Journey
Looking back at hemp’s history in America, it’s clear that its relationship with the U.S. government has been anything but simple. From being a colonial necessity to a banned crop and then a revived industry, hemp has experienced a turbulent ride. But now, it’s finally getting the recognition it deserves.
Hemp’s versatility has always made it a valuable resource, from early agricultural uses to modern applications in health, sustainability, and industry. As attitudes toward cannabis continue to shift, hemp’s future looks brighter than ever.
Hemp has always been part of America’s past, and now, it’s shaping the future. Despite the ups and downs, this plant is proving its worth once again.
Richard Sniffen
Richard moved from Texas recently to join the family business in Hemp. He has researched terpenes and cannabinoids extensively and uses the acquired knowledge to provide meaningful insight to more opportunities for natural healing. He's the General Manager of the Durham Carolina Hemp Hut store and a cannabis product group Manager.
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