ABSTRACT
Every major war in which the United States has engaged, beginning with the Civil War, has had considerable effect upon the narcotics problem. World War II was not an exception. Chaotic conditions in many parts of the world and flourishing black markets will favor the traffic in drugs. As has been indicated, the high cost of drugs and their scarcity made it difficult for American users to maintain their habits during the war. In prewar days, the large quantities of drugs continuously flowing through underworld channels of distribution accounted for a large proportion of the new cases that were constantly appearing. Some persons will no doubt reason that since war is a time of worry and anxiety, it is to be expected that individuals seeking escape or relief from their worries and fears will resort to drugs more frequently than in time of peace.
