Cannabis: A History

Martin Booth

Jun 2015 · Sold by Macmillan

About this ebook

To some it's the classic "gateway drug", to others it is a harmless way to relax, or provide relief from crippling pain. Some fear it is a dangerous drug with addictive properties; to others still it is a legal anomaly and should be decriminalized. Whatever the viewpoint, and by whatever name it is known, cannabis--or marijuana, hashish, dope, pot, weed, grass, ganja--incites debate at every level, and the effect it has on the cultures and economics of every corner of the globe is undeniable.

In this definitive study, Martin Booth crafts a tale of medical advance, religious enlightenment, political subterfuge and human rights; of law enforcement and custom officers, cunning smugglers, street pushers, gang warfare, writers, artists, musicians, and happy-go-lucky hippies and potheads.

Booth chronicles the fascinating and often mystifying process through which cannabis, a relatively harmless substance, became outlawed throughout the Western world, and the devastating effect such legislation has on the global economy. Above all, he demonstrates how the case for decriminalization remains one of the twenty-first century's hottest topics.

Ratings and reviews

People need to educate themselves on this topic if they ever wish to override the years and years of harmful propaganda on the subject. This is a good start. Do not let your government make a fool of you.

I would never have gotten this E-book if I had known I could not transfer it to my Kindle reader. I am getting my money back.

About the author

Martin Booth was an internationally known, Booker-prize shortlisted writer. His Opium: A History is regarded as the definitive book on the subject. He lived in Devon, England, at the time of his death in February 2004.