letin issued by the FBN in the mid-1930s reported that a user of marijuana "becomes a fiend with savage or 'cave man' tendencies. His sex desires are aroused and some of the most horrible crimes result. He hears light and sees sound. To get away from it, he suddenly becomes violent and may kill." (Grinspoon 17) A Washington Times editorial published shortly before Congress held its first hearing on the issue argued: "The fatal marihuana cigarette must be recognized as a deadly drug and American children must be protected against it." (Hester 1) This steady stream of propaganda influenced 27 states to pass laws against marijuana in the years leading up to federal prohibition and set the stage both culturally and politically for the passage of the "Marihuana Tax Act in 1937." (Stroup 2) Harry Anslinger testified before the House Ways and Means Committee that "this drug is entirely the monster-Hyde, the harmful effects of which cannot be measured." (Stroup2) Statements similar to this summarized the federal government's official position and served as the initial justification for criminalizing marijuana smoking.
             The American Medical Association (AMA) represented the lone voice against marijuana prohibition before congress. AMA Legislative Counsel Dr. William C. Woodward testified there is no evidence that marijuana is a dangerous drug. (Stroup 2) "Woodward challenged the propriety of passing legislation based only on newspaper accounts and questioned why no data from the Bureau of Prisons or the Children's Bureau supported the FBN's position." (Stroup 2) Woodward also con
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