The legalization of cannabis is on the rise around America, but did you ever wonder why was it prohibited in the first place? In this class we'll take a look back on the many uses of cannabis throughout history before we dive into how sensationalist journalism, racism, and the rise of big business came together to vilify this plant in the early 20th century. We will also consider current debates around the recreational and medicinal use of this plant.

[source: Rochester City Newspaper events calendar, 2019-Apr-10]