Hemp, also known as industrial hemp, is a plant that has been used for thousands of years for various purposes such as making textiles, paper, and food. It is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant species, but unlike marijuana, it contains very low levels of the psychoactive compound THC. Hemp has a rich history in the United States, dating back to the colonial era. Let's explore the history of hemp in the United States.

Early History of Hemp in the United States

Hemp has been used in the United States since the first European settlers arrived. In fact, it was even mandatory for farmers in most colonies to grow hemp, as it was considered a valuable cash crop. Hemp was used to make rope, lamp fuel, sails, clothing, and more, and was considered an essential crop for the country's growing economy.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, hemp was widely cultivated in the United States, and it played a significant role in the country's agricultural industry. Many of the founding fathers, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, were hemp farmers and advocated for its use. In fact, Washington famously declared, "Make the most of the Indian hemp seed, and sow it everywhere!"

Hemp's Decline and Stigmatization

Hemp's popularity began to decline in the early 20th century, due in part to the invention of new synthetic materials that could replace hemp products. Also, the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 placed a heavy tax on all cannabis-related products, including hemp. This made it difficult and expensive for farmers to continue growing hemp, and many shifted their focus to other crops.

The stigma surrounding hemp also played a significant role in its decline. Many people believed that hemp was the same as marijuana, and that it had dangerous psychoactive properties. This led to a general mistrust of the plant, and it was eventually outlawed altogether in the United States. It wasn’t until the 1970s, at the height of the War on Drugs, that hemp was listed as a Schedule I drug. This placed strict regulations on its production in the U.S. Oddly, in 1998, the United States began important hemp seed and oil from other countries, while still outlawing its production in the states.

Hemp's Resurgence

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in hemp, as people have come to realize its many benefits. Hemp is a sustainable and versatile crop that can be used to make a wide variety of products, including clothing, paper, and even building materials. The health benefits of CBD (a natural compound found in the hemp plant) are just starting to be realized. Additionally, hemp seeds are a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making them a popular health food. 

In 2007, the first hemp licenses in five decades were given to two North Dakota farmers. In 2014, President Obama signed a version of the Farm Bill that established the Hemp Pilot Program, allowing certain research institutions to cultivate and study hemp. And in 2018, hemp was officially legalized on the federal level. This has led to a resurgence in hemp farming, as farmers are now able to grow and sell hemp without fear of legal repercussions.

Conclusion

Hemp has a long and storied history in the United States, and its future looks bright. As people become more aware of its many benefits, we can expect to see an increase in the production and use of hemp products in the coming years. Whether it's used for textiles, food, natural remedies or building materials, hemp is a versatile crop that has the potential to play a significant role in the country's economy and sustainability efforts.