It was back when it was banned, partially due to intentional propaganda (which is why Americans use the Spanish word for it, rather than cannabis). A quick rea

It was back when it was banned, partially due to intentional propaganda (which is why Americans use the Spanish word for it, rather than cannabis). A quick read through the wiki page of Harry Anslinger, first commissioner of the Federal Narcotics Bureau and one of the main architects of reefer madness, will give you a good overview: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_J._Anslinger https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_J._Anslinger