The History of Marijuana Legalization: A Timeline of Change
The legalization of marijuana has been a long and complex process, with shifting attitudes and laws shaping the landscape of cannabis regulation. Historically, marijuana has been criminalized in many countries due to concerns about its psychoactive effects and potential for abuse. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend towards legalization as researchers and policymakers recognize the plant's medical benefits and relatively low risks compared to other substances Weed in Braga . The first significant step towards marijuana legalization in the United States came in 1996 when California became the first state to legalize medical marijuana. This groundbreaking decision paved the way for other states to follow suit, with a total of 36 states now allowing the use of medical marijuana in some form. In addition, 18 states have legalized recreational marijuana, signaling a major shift in public opinion and policy towards the plant. Internationally, countries like Cana...