This article may incorporate text from a
large language model. (March 2024) |
Submission declined on 24 March 2024 by
KylieTastic (
talk). This submission is not adequately supported by
reliable sources. Reliable sources are required so that information can be
verified. If you need help with referencing, please see
Referencing for beginners and
Citing sources. This draft's references do not show that the subject
qualifies for a Wikipedia article. In summary, the draft needs multiple published sources that are:
Where to get help
How to improve a draft
You can also browse Wikipedia:Featured articles and Wikipedia:Good articles to find examples of Wikipedia's best writing on topics similar to your proposed article. Improving your odds of a speedy review To improve your odds of a faster review, tag your draft with relevant WikiProject tags using the button below. This will let reviewers know a new draft has been submitted in their area of interest. For instance, if you wrote about a female astronomer, you would want to add the Biography, Astronomy, and Women scientists tags. Editor resources
| ![]() |
The legalization of cocaine is a contentious and highly debated topic that revolves around the decriminalization or regulation of the production, distribution, and use of cocaine, a potent stimulant drug derived from the coca plant. Cocaine is currently classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States under the Controlled Substances Act, indicating a high potential for abuse and dependence, but with recognized medical uses in certain contexts. However, many countries around the world have adopted stringent drug policies that criminalize the possession, sale, and production of cocaine.
Cocaine has a long history of use, dating back centuries in indigenous cultures in South America, where the coca plant is native. Its psychoactive effects were well-known among these communities, and it was used for various purposes, including medicinal, religious, and social reasons. However, the widespread use of cocaine in the late 19th and early 20th centuries led to concerns about addiction and abuse, prompting governments to enact strict regulations on its production and distribution.
In the 20th century, the United States led global efforts to criminalize cocaine and other illicit drugs, culminating in the "War on Drugs" initiated by President Richard Nixon in the 1970s. This approach emphasized law enforcement and punitive measures to combat drug abuse and trafficking, resulting in mass incarceration and significant social consequences, particularly for marginalized communities.
Proponents of the legalization of cocaine argue that current drug policies have failed to curb drug abuse and trafficking while exacerbating social and public health problems. They contend that legalization could:
Critics of cocaine legalization raise several concerns, including: