Marijuana, the most commonly used illegal drug in the United States, has four million regular users. Hemp, the plant that the drug marijuana is derived from, scientifically known as cannibas sativa, was first grown in 1611. The practice of smoking marijuana, however, did not begin until the 1920s, during a very intolerant time period of America's history where the prohibition of alcohol was being considered. The first marijuana users happened to be the same users of opiate, mainly immigrants. Because of the negative connotation of immigrants, marijuana immediately became classified as a narcotic. A narcotic that possessed a psychological dependence, initiated crime, and caused insanity. For these reasons in 1937, congress established marijuana as an illegal drug in all fifty states. Surprisingly, not once was any research performed on marijuana and its effects during this time period (www.angelfire.com). For the past decade, the prohibition of marijuana has proved to be a colossal failure; therefore, a new approach needs to be taken. Marijuana has even now surpassed corn as America's cash crop. Judge Whitmann Napp stated, "After twenty years on the bench I have concluded that federal drug laws are a disaster. It is time to get the government out of drug enforcement." (New York Times, May 14th, 1993). Medical uses, its safety compared to other drugs, and its legal benefits require its immediate legalization.
             Through research, doctors have found that marijuana possesses multiple medical uses. Prohibition is limiting its medical capabilities. Research demonstrates that marijuana contains therapeutic uses, including the ability to reduce nausea and vomiting, stimulate an appetite, promote weight gain, and diminish intraocular pressure from glaucoma. THC, Tetrahydrocannabino, the active ingredient of marijuana, decreases muscle spasticity and lessens tremors from spinal cord injuries and multiple scler...