The promotional material for the 1936 exploitation film Tell Your Children, later re-released under the more infamous title Reefer Madness, serves as a potent visual representation of the anti-cannabis propaganda prevalent in mid-20th century America. These artifacts typically depict exaggerated scenarios of violence, insanity, and societal decay attributed to marijuana use, reflecting the film’s sensationalized narrative.
As historical documents, these images provide valuable insight into the social and political climate surrounding drug use during the period. They represent not only a now-discredited fear-mongering campaign but also a powerful example of how media can shape public perception. Studying these materials allows for a critical examination of propaganda techniques and the historical construction of drug-related moral panics. This understanding is crucial for contextualizing contemporary discussions surrounding drug policy and public health.
