The culture of marijuana in the USA
Jokes about weed appear in almost every other American movie. Some might think that all of America is drowning in drugs, wondering what’s so funny about it. Others might say, “We wish we had that here!” In reality, both perspectives have some truth. The more complex the topic, the more interesting it is to explore!
American Butler conducted an investigation: we found out what you need to know about the culture of marijuana in the USA, how safe cannabis is used, and why weed jokes are not always funny. Read the article to learn about the situation from the inside.
American Butler does not promote the use of marijuana or any other drugs. Our goal is to educate readers and tourists about existing laws and cultural features of different countries. We strive to provide accurate and useful information to help you better understand and navigate legal and cultural norms.
Why legalize marijuana?
The USA has a unique relationship with cannabis. No other plant, even those classified as rare or endangered, receives such attention. One reason lies in the English word "drugs," which means both medicine and narcotics.
In small, controlled doses prescribed by a doctor, cannabis plant substances can relieve chronic, neurological, and other types of pain for many patients. These conditions are often incurable and cause significant suffering. Marijuana affects the central nervous system, dulling pain signals, relaxing muscles, and relieving severe spasms. Additionally, it is quickly and easily eliminated from the body, almost without affecting the liver and brain, unlike many pharmaceuticals.
Ethnic traditions of America's indigenous peoples also influenced the classification of marijuana as a medicinal substance. Native Americans and future Latin Americans had no knowledge of chemistry and pharmacology but actively used plants for shamanic and medicinal purposes. They used some plants to enter a trance state for communicating with gods (although now we understand these substances had no divine connection) or to alleviate pain in smaller doses.
Such practices were rare in Europe, but after colonizers settled in America, this method gained popularity. As with anything, moderation was required, which people often did not follow. Consequently, marijuana developed a controversial reputation.
It often happens that more dangerous synthetic drugs are mixed into marijuana — in this case, addiction is almost inevitable, and unpleasant consequences are guaranteed.American Butler
The history of cannabis legalization in the USA
The history actually dates back quite far — to 1619, when King James of England made hemp one of the mandatory export crops. At that time, it wasn’t ingested. Hemp was used for producing fabrics, ropes, and paper. Ironically, the U.S. Declaration of Independence was written on hemp paper. It wasn’t until 200 years later that hemp was officially recognized as a medicinal substance by the British scientific community. By then, new Americans were already using hemp tinctures for migraines. However, as side effects like addiction began to surface, labels on hemp medicines started including the word “poison.”
By 1905-06, 29 states had restrictions on the sale of hemp and its derivatives, and by 1930, all states had bans on the production and distribution of cannabis. During Reagan's presidency, any interaction with drugs could land a person in prison for 25-30 years.
In the 1960s, the floodgates opened. More potent drugs appeared, making marijuana seem harmless by comparison, and the psychedelic culture of the hippies gained momentum. Bill Clinton was the first public figure to admit to trying weed, albeit with the caveat, “didn’t inhale, didn’t like it.” Gradually, marijuana culture began emerging from the shadows.
By 2012, the movement for legalization was so active that a referendum was held. Colorado and Washington were the first states to legalize marijuana. In January 2018, the ban was lifted for California — the most populous state in the USA.
Where is marijuana legal?
Marijuana use is permitted strictly for medical purposes (prescribed by a doctor with the appropriate documentation) in the following states:
- Arizona
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Arkansas
- Illinois
- Florida
- Hawaii
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- Montana
- Michigan
- Vermont
- Rhode Island
- North Dakota
- New Mexico
Recreational use is also permitted in:
- California
- Nevada
- Alaska
- Washington
- Colorado
- Maine
- Oregon
- Massachusetts
- District of Columbia
Individuals over 21 can possess up to 1 ounce (28.4 grams) of marijuana. In-home cultivation of up to 6 plants is allowed. However, trading or using marijuana in public places is strictly prohibited.
Despite some states permitting use, U.S. law does not spare those caught using, producing, or distributing drugs of any kind.
Why take marijuana seriously?
Marijuana can be purchased legally with a prescription, following the recommended dosage. If you don’t need it for medical reasons, it is highly discouraged to seek out and try any type of marijuana on your own. In such cases, there’s no guarantee of safety, as street cannabis can be laced with anything.
Marijuana itself has a mild psychoactive effect. Many believe it’s the most natural and harmless way to relax. However, dealers are not concerned with safety — they want you to become a regular customer.
Depending on their financial needs and personal preferences, some individuals have learned to produce potent drugs from seemingly harmless cannabis. For example, sensimilla, made from mature but unpollinated cannabis flowers, has a highly concentrated cannabinoid content, offering strong psychoactive effects and quick addiction. Often, more dangerous synthetic drugs are mixed into marijuana, leading to almost inevitable addiction and guaranteed adverse effects.
American Butler can not only inform you about various aspects of American culture, even controversial ones, but also organize an excellent tour in the USA. Contact our specialists by phone or through the chat window, and we’ll be happy to help!
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