
The History of Hemp in the United States.
Share
Hemp was once a major crop in the United States. However, hemp production declined in the early 20th century, due in part to the rise of synthetic fibers and the Great Depression. In 1937, the Marihuana Tax Act was passed, which made it illegal to grow or sell hemp in the United States.
The Marihuana Tax Act was based on the false assumption that hemp and marijuana are the same plant. In fact, hemp and marijuana are two distinct species of cannabis. Hemp contains very low levels of THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana.
The Marihuana Tax Act had a devastating impact on the hemp industry in the United States. Hemp farmers were forced to destroy their crops, and hemp processors were forced to close their doors. The United States became a net importer of hemp, and the hemp industry never recovered.
The Legalization of Hemp
In 2018, the Farm Bill was passed, which legalized the production of hemp in the United States. The Farm Bill defines hemp as any cannabis plant that contains no more than 0.3% THC.
The legalization of hemp has opened up new opportunities for the hemp industry. Hemp is now being used to make a wide variety of products, including clothing, food, paper, and building materials. The hemp industry is also creating new jobs and contributing to the economy.
The Future of Hemp
The hemp industry is still in its infancy, but it has the potential to grow significantly in the coming years. As more people become aware of the benefits of hemp, demand for hemp products is likely to increase.
The hemp industry is also facing some challenges. One challenge is the lack of regulation. The federal government has not yet established regulations for the hemp industry, which has led to some confusion and uncertainty. Another challenge is the high cost of hemp production. Hemp is a labor-intensive crop, and the cost of growing hemp is often higher than the cost of growing other crops.
Despite these challenges, the future of the hemp industry looks bright. Hemp is a versatile and sustainable crop that has the potential to make a significant contribution to the economy.
Conclusion
Hemp was once a major crop in the United States, but it was made illegal in 1937. The legalization of hemp in 2018 has opened up new opportunities for the hemp industry. The hemp industry is still in its infancy, but it has the potential to grow significantly in the coming years. Explore our collection of sustainable hemp clothing today and join us in making a difference!