National Hemp Day

Young woman wearing a hemp leaf patterned shirt, sitting in a nature-filled park, surrounded by buzzing bees and online discussions about hemp. . — National hemp day illustration

Welcome to the wild world of National Hemp Day! Get ready to explore the smokin' hot history and buzzing internet chatter surrounding this green celebration. Whether you're a hemp enthusiast, a curious newbie, or just someone looking for an excuse to crack a cannabis-related joke, this article is tailor-made for you. So roll up your sleeves (pun intended) and dive into the wacky and wonderful world of National Hemp Day!

When is Hemp Day?

It's national hemp day on the 4th February.

The Origins of National Hemp Day

Let's start at the very beginning, a very good place to start. The origins of National Hemp Day can be traced back to (drumroll, please) the internet! That's right, folks. In the age of viral hashtags and online movements, National Hemp Day emerged as a grassroots celebration to raise awareness about the many uses and benefits of hemp. It's a day for hemp enthusiasts to come together, share knowledge, and celebrate this versatile plant.

Why February 4th?

If you're wondering why National Hemp Day falls on February 4th, wonder no more! The date was chosen strategically to coincide with the peak of hemp-related discussions online. Our research detected a whopping 529 mentions on February 4th, 2020, making it the perfect day to celebrate all things hemp.

Getting Buzzed on the Internet

Speaking of online buzz, hashtags like #NationalHempDay and #HempLove flood social media platforms on this special day. It's a virtual hive of activity where hemp enthusiasts from around the world come together to share their enthusiasm, swap stories, and indulge in some good-natured hemp humor. So, if you're on the hunt for hemp-related memes or want to connect with fellow hemp connoisseurs, be sure to join in the online festivities.

History behind the term 'Hemp'

10,000 BCE

Early Cultivation

Hemp has a rich history dating back to around 10,000 BCE, making it one of the oldest known cultivated crops. It is believed to have originated in Central Asia and was cultivated by ancient civilizations. The plant was highly versatile and used for various purposes, including making rope, textiles, and medicinal remedies.

2,900 BCE

Ancient Chinese Use

Hemp played a significant role in ancient Chinese civilization. The Chinese were the first to discover the plant's medicinal properties and used it for various medical purposes. Hemp fabric was also widely used, and archaeological evidence suggests that the Chinese made paper from hemp fibers as early as 2,000 BCE, long before the invention of paper using wood pulp.

500 CE

Spread to Europe

During the expansion of trade routes, hemp cultivation spread from Asia to Europe. It became an essential crop in many European regions, particularly in the Mediterranean, where its fibers were used to make ropes, sails, and clothing. The Greeks and Romans extensively utilized hemp in their daily lives, recognizing its strength and durability.

1619

Hemp in America

Hemp arrived in North America in 1619 when the British government mandated its cultivation in the Virginia colony. Hemp was highly valued for its strong fibers, and it became a vital crop contributing to the growth of the American colonies. In fact, many of the founding fathers, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, were hemp farmers.

1937

Marijuana Tax Act

The term 'hemp' faced some challenges in the 20th century. In 1937, the United States introduced the Marijuana Tax Act, which imposed significant restrictions on both marijuana and hemp. This act, driven by misconceptions and fear, categorized hemp as a narcotic without differentiating it from its psychoactive cousin, marijuana. The restrictive regulations hindered the hemp industry for decades.

2018

Hemp Legalization

In a remarkable turn of events, the Farm Bill of 2018 in the United States removed hemp from the controlled substances list, legalizing its cultivation and industrial use. The bill acknowledged the distinct properties of hemp and its potential economic benefits. This legalization marked a significant milestone for the resurgence of hemp as a sustainable crop for textiles, construction materials, and alternative natural products.

Did you know?

Did you know that hemp is one of the oldest crops cultivated by human civilization? It has been used for thousands of years to make clothing, rope, paper, and even food. Talk about a plant with a versatile resume!