“The Racist Legacy of Harry J. Anslinger, First Commissioner of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics”

Harry J. Anslinger was the first commissioner of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, serving from 1930 to 1962. During his tenure, he became one of the most notorious figures in the history of drug policy, as his anti-marijuana crusade often contained racist themes.

Anslinger's views on marijuana were deeply rooted in racism. He believed that the drug was primarily used by African Americans and Mexicans, and that it was responsible for turning them into violent, sex-crazed criminals. He also claimed that marijuana was a "gateway drug" that would lead users to experiment with harder drugs like heroin and cocaine.

In order to promote his anti-marijuana agenda, Anslinger employed a number of racist tactics. He circulated stories in the media about African American and Mexican men who had supposedly become violent after smoking marijuana. He also testified before Congress that marijuana was "the most violence-causing drug in the history of mankind."

Anslinger's racist views on marijuana were so extreme that even contemporary conservative politicians called for his resignation based solely on his open racist remarks. In 1951, Senator Joseph McCarthy accused Anslinger of being a communist sympathizer, but the real reason for his attack was likely Anslinger's racist views.

Despite his controversial legacy, Anslinger was instrumental in shaping American drug policy. He helped to pass the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937, which effectively criminalized marijuana at the federal level. He also played a key role in international drug policy, helping to draft the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs in 1961.A Great Book to Read: Reefer Madness: A History of Marijuana Paperback:https://amzn.to/3JjJCqs

Today, many drug policy reform advocates view Anslinger as a cautionary tale about the dangers of racist drug policies. His legacy serves as a reminder that drug policy should be based on science, not stereotypes or prejudice.