Cocaine: History Between the Lines (2011)
Cocaine: History Between the Lines is a documentary that delves into the intriguing and complex history of cocaine. Let’s explore its fascinating journey:
The Ancient Origins
- The human appetite for this narcotic traces back to 3000 B.C. in South America.
- Ancient South Americans chewed coca leaves, believing they were a gift from God.
- However, it wasn’t until 1855, when cocaine was first extracted from the coca leaf and used in powder form, that its use spiked.
- Initially, it served as an anesthetic during medical procedures.
Freud, Coca-Cola, and Controversy
- Sigmund Freud, the famed psychologist, touted cocaine as an effective cure for depression and impotence.
- In 1886, John Pemberton, an Atlanta pharmacist, added cocaine to his new soft drink: Coca-Cola (or Coke for short).
- The beverage became a sensation, but the consequences were far-reaching.
The Rise and Fall
- By the 1970s, cocaine use experienced another surge, fueled partly by new drug cartels in South America.
- To combat this rise, the Reagan administration launched the War on Drugs in the 1980s.
- Despite efforts, the damage had been done, and the impact on society was profound.
Unmasking the Narcotic
Cocaine: History Between the Lines takes viewers beyond the surface, revealing the intricate web of this potent substance. From ancient rituals to modern addiction, it’s a story of highs, lows, and ethical dilemmas.
