Reading Assignment for Section 1.1: History of Drug Use and Control

Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 1.1: History of Drug Use and Control.

What You Will Learn

In this section, you’ll journey through the history of drug use, from ancient civilizations’ medicinal and spiritual practices to the global economic and political shifts of the colonial era. You’ll uncover how key legislation and events, like the Harrison Act and the War on Drugs, have shaped societal and policy responses. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of emerging trends like decriminalization and harm reduction and how they aim to reshape the conversation on drugs and public health.

Student Learning Outcomes for Section 1.1

• SLO 1: Summarize the medicinal and spiritual uses of drugs in ancient civilizations and their significance in shaping early societal attitudes toward these substances.
• SLO 2: Explain the role of the opium trade during the colonial era and its impact on global economies, addiction rates, and conflicts like the Opium Wars.
• SLO 3: Identify key developments in drug control policies from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, including the Harrison Narcotics Tax Act and its societal implications.
• SLO 4: Analyze the U.S. War on Drugs and its domestic and international consequences, particularly its effects on marginalized communities and global drug policies.
• SLO 5: Evaluate modern trends in drug policy, including decriminalization and harm reduction strategies, and their potential to address public health concerns.

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