Drug War

From WolfWikis

Brief History of Cocaine in the Americas

The presence of drugs in Latin America has had a profound impact on its culture, people and government throughout history. The coca plant has existed in the Andes since prehistoric times and remains the oldest stimulant known to man. In the ancient civilizations of Latin America, (particularly the Inca empire) coca was believed to holy and was a key element in their religious and social system. Over the centuries it has been used for its many medicinal purposes. In addition to being a powerful stimulant, providing energy and endurance, it is also useful as a local anesthetic and in preventing altitude sickness.

In the nineteenth century, scientists figured out how to isolate the main alkaloid in the coca leaf, producing cocaine. Regaled as“magical drug”, cocaine was widely popular during this time period. As pharmaceutical companies created innumerable medications and elixirs containing the drug, beverages such as Coca-Cola also immerged. In fact, “In England, William Martindale, who was to become president of the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, recommended an ‘infusion of coca’ as a substitute for tea and coffee” (page 40, Cocaine Wars). He believed that if used in moderation, it might even prolong life.

However, as time went on, the negative affects of the drug were soon discovered. Cocaine can be highly addictive, both physically and psychologically. By 1895, cocaine was classified as a “poisonous substance” due to several deaths associated with the drug. With the 1906 Congressional Pure Food and Drug Act, cocaine was no longer allowed as an ingredient in food or beverages. It was formally banned in the United States by 1914 with the Harrison Act.

After the Vietnam War, illegal cocaine use increased exponentially in the United States. It was unofficially endorsed by numerous musicians, actors, and professional athletes. President Richard Nixon first coined the term "war on drugs" during his 1968 presidential campaign. The so-called "war" gained momentum and has been continued by suceeding presidents to this day.