1600s
Hemp Production
In the 1600’s, hemp was an important commodity that was mainly used to produce rope for ships along with cloth and canvas.
1800s
Tinctures are freely sold across North America and provided relief for various medical ailments.
1922 - 1923
Prohibition
The start of cannabis prohibition in Canada. Many historians point to Emily Murphy influencing cannabis prohibition in Canada. In 1922, she wrote that, under the influence of cannabis, users “become raving maniacs, and are liable to kill or indulge in any form of violence to other persons, using the most savage methods of cruelty.” Cannabis was outlawed in 1923.
1960s
Cannabis consumption starts to become more mainstream, fueled by a rise in counter-culture that rejected traditional values.
American Draft Dodgers avoiding the Vietnam War started to come up to Canada in the late 60’s, bringing cannabis seeds with them. Many settled in the fertile climates of BC and with the help of local hippies, “BC Bud” was born.
American Draft Dodgers avoiding the Vietnam War started to come up to Canada in the late 60’s, bringing cannabis seeds with them. Many settled in the fertile climates of BC and with the help of local hippies, “BC Bud” was born.
1971
Smoke-In in Gastown
Cannabis advocates came together in the streets of Vancouver to smoke and publicly protest prohibition. Crowd numbers swelled and police responded with heavy-handed tactics resulting in a night of violence which became known as the Gastown Riots.
1980
Le Dain Commission & “Just Say No”
In 1972, The Le Dain Commission recommended allowing simple possession and cultivation of cannabis for personal use but the findings were largely ignored by the federal government. In the 80’s, people started to push back on the hippie vibes of the previous decades. Cannabis use declined and became much more underground partially driven by an increased police enforcement and cannabis related arrests.
1990s
Cannabis makes a comeback with more serious discussions about the plant and associated medicinal benefits. A handful of Activists started opening hemp and cannabis culture shops, some of which are still around today.
2015
Cannabis legalization picks up steam and becomes a major component of Justin Trudeau’s platform to become Prime Minister.
2018
Legalization
Finally! On Oct 17, 2018 Canada became the 2nd country in the world (after Uruguay) to legalize cannabis.
Words By:
Connor Young
AnIMATIONS by:
Lauren Shipton + Trudy Tsan
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