The DuPont Connection: How Nylon Killed Hemp

Timeline of a Conspiracy

1935

DuPont develops nylon from petroleum derivatives. The patent is filed but not yet granted.

1936

Harry Anslinger, head of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, launches his anti-marijuana propaganda campaign. His wife's uncle, Andrew Mellon — Secretary of the Treasury — is DuPont's primary financial backer.

1937

The Marihuana Tax Act is passed, effectively criminalizing hemp cultivation. DuPont's nylon patent is granted the same year.

1938

DuPont's annual report to stockholders states: "radical changes from the revenue raising power of government would be converted into a source of new wealth."

The Hearst Factor

William Randolph Hearst owned vast timber holdings used for his newspaper empire's paper supply. Hemp threatened this monopoly. Hearst's newspapers ran the sensationalized anti-marijuana stories that built public support for prohibition.

The Result

A plant that had been cultivated for 10,000+ years was criminalized in a single legislative session. Not because of public health concerns, but because it threatened the petroleum and timber industries.

This is documented history. This is not conspiracy theory. This is conspiracy fact.