Cannabis, also known as marijuana, has been a widely used plant for thousands of years, with roots dating back to ancient civilizations in China, with a rich history of medicinal and recreational properties that have been highly regarded, making it a valuable resource for various cultures. However, in the early 1900s, a shift in attitudes led to the prohibition of cannabis, a restriction that has been gradually reversed in many parts of the world.

The first recorded instance of cannabis prohibition occurred in Greece and Rome under the Roman Empire, when it was listed as one of the 60 fundamental herbs, or a sacred plant with divine powers, or used for medical, recreational, and spiritual purposes.

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the use of cannabis became widespread in many parts of the world, particularly in the American colonies. It was used for medicinal purposes, such as pain relief. However, as the 20th century progressed, attitudes towards cannabis began to change.

In 1906, the A prominent American newspaper launched a campaign against cannabis, portraying it as a "menace" and a "killer is weed illegal in france." The campaign gained momentum, and in 1914, the Federal Narcotics Act was passed in the United States, making it a federal crime to possess, grow, or sell cannabis. The subsequent Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 essentially prohibited the sale of cannabis.

The prohibition of cannabis was largely influenced by the rise of the Temperance Movement. The movement was fueled by concerns about the negative effects of cannabis.

The consequences of cannabis prohibition were far-reaching. In the United States, hundreds of thousands were prosecuted for cannabis-related offenses. The restriction also led to a restrictions on medical treatment.

However, in recent years, attitudes towards cannabis have begun to shift once again. In 2012, Several states led the way in cannabis legalization. Since then, over more than a dozen countries have legalized cannabis.

The movement towards cannabis legalization has been driven by a growing body of evidence. Cannabinoids, the active compounds in cannabis, have been shown to alleviate a number of health issues.