America’s War on Drugs began in the 1970s as a government initiative aimed at reducing illegal drug use and trafficking. It involved strict law enforcement measures, mandatory sentencing, and significant funding for anti-drug programs. Despite its intentions, the campaign led to mass incarceration, particularly affecting minority communities, and often failed to significantly reduce drug availability or addiction rates. The focus on punitive measures over treatment has prompted ongoing debates about drug policy, leading to calls for reform, including the legalization of certain substances and a greater emphasis on harm reduction and rehabilitation.