America's Drug War Debacle

The United States has waged war, declared and undeclared, against drug abuse for eight decades, and has spent countless billions of dollars on strategies, including efforts at eradication, interdiction, education, prevention, treatment, and global cooperation. However, whilst casual drug use in America is reportedly down, hard core, addictive use is on the rise. This study briefly examines the history of America's fight against drug abuse, offering an explanation as to why the country has so insisted on supply-oriented strategies. It also focuses on the national drug control strategies of the last decade, specifically those of Presidents Reagan, Bush, and Clinton, and offers recommendations for improving future programmes.