History of Cannabis

The course focuses on hemp origin and importance of the plant from a historical context. Topics will include the history of cannabis from ancient India to its place in the modern globalized 21st Century World. The course will include political aspects, religious rituals, biblical and historical scriptures, describing the evolution of cannabis in ancient and modern society. The course will lead to an understanding of the impact of historically important events relating to hemp agronomy and product/industrial applications. Students will also explore how federal law and policy relating to medical and non-medical use of cannabis has evolved in the United States, and discuss ethical issues related to cannabis. After completion of the course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of the varied roles that cannabis has played throughout the course of world history.