Harry J. Anslinger

Harry J. Anslinger was a key figure in U.S. drug policy as the first commissioner of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics from 1930 to 1962. He played a central role in shaping harsh laws against drugs like marijuana and heroin, emphasizing criminalization over treatment. His aggressive stance contributed to widespread stigma and strict enforcement efforts that impacted countless lives. Anslinger believed drug use was linked to crime and social decline, influencing U.S. drug policies for decades and leaving a complex legacy in the history of drug law enforcement.