The History of Hemp and Cannabis in the U.S.: From Prohibition to the THCA Boom

Cannabis has deep roots in American history — far deeper than many people realize. From its early days as a staple crop, through decades of prohibition, to the modern rise of THCA and hemp-derived products, the story of cannabis is a fascinating journey of culture, law, and innovation.

At ShopGreenish, we’re proud to carry on this legacy by offering premium THCA flower and products that are rooted in tradition yet aligned with today’s laws and lifestyles.

Here’s a look back at how hemp and cannabis shaped — and continue to shape — the American experience.

Colonial Beginnings: Hemp as a Vital Crop

Hemp was one of the first crops cultivated by European settlers in America. As early as the 1600s, colonies like Jamestown were required by law to grow hemp for making ropes, sails, paper, and textiles.

Fun fact: Even George Washington and Thomas Jefferson grew hemp on their estates.

For centuries, hemp was a cornerstone of agriculture, valued for its durability and versatility — not its intoxicating effects.

The 20th Century: Cannabis Prohibition

Everything changed in the early 1900s, when anti-cannabis sentiment — fueled by racism, misinformation, and political agendas — swept through the country.

• 1937: The Marihuana Tax Act effectively criminalized cannabis, making it nearly impossible to grow or sell hemp and marijuana alike.

• Hemp, despite its lack of psychoactive properties, was lumped together with marijuana and banned.

• This prohibition persisted for decades, pushing cannabis underground and stigmatizing its use.

A Shift Begins: The Hemp Comeback

Attitudes began to shift in the late 20th and early 21st centuries:

• The 1990s and 2000s saw states legalizing medical marijuana.

• The 2014 Farm Bill allowed limited hemp cultivation for research.

• The 2018 Farm Bill fully legalized hemp-derived products (containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC) nationwide.

Suddenly, hemp — and its many cannabinoids — were back in the spotlight.

The Rise of THCA: A Modern Innovation

The hemp boom opened the door for innovation, leading to the discovery and commercialization of THCA flower.

THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is the raw, non-psychoactive form of THC found in hemp and cannabis. When smoked or vaped, THCA converts into THC — giving users the traditional cannabis experience, while remaining federally compliant as a hemp product.

Today, premium THCA flower and pre-rolls offer customers a legal, natural, and potent alternative to traditional dispensary cannabis — and they’re at the heart of what we do here at ShopGreenish.

The Future: Premium Hemp for Modern Lifestyles

From colonial hemp fields to today’s curated THCA flower, cannabis and hemp have always been a part of American life. As laws and attitudes continue to evolve, one thing remains clear: customers want clean, high-quality products they can trust.

At ShopGreenish, we honor this history by providing only the finest THCA flower, pre-rolls, and edibles, grown and crafted with care.

Ready to Experience the THCA Boom?

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👉 Shop premium THCA flower today and enjoy the best of cannabis history — and innovation.