ABSTRACT
Since at least the 1960s, America has been coping with a drug problem. Although drugs have always been present in some form or another, it was not until the 1960s that they became the focus of attention of large segments of society. This period also witnessed public display of drug use. Drugs remain a problem that concerns many Americans and constantly remains at the forefront of American politics and governmental policymaking. Many see drugs as a stimulant for crime, especially violent crime, while others are concerned with addiction's devastating effects on people. The drug problem has so occupied attention that several American presidents, beginning with President Nixon, have declared war on drugs. Talk of war has helped to mobilize support and stir
people's emotions. It should be noted, however, that we have never had a war against drugs. Although stated as such, drug wars actually have been aimed at people, and to this end, the war has had no limits. In many instances, it has been a no-holds-barred, all-out assault on those who are associated with drugs or perceived to be associated with drugs.
