Final answer:
Harry Anslinger led the Federal Bureau of Narcotics from 1930-1963 and influenced the criminalization of marijuana, later enhanced by President Richard Nixon's 'War on Drugs' policy, leading to increased law enforcement and racial disparities in drug offense sentencing. The correct option is c) Harry Anslinger
Step-by-step explanation:
The Commissioner of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics from 1930 to 1963 who led the movement to make marijuana and other drugs illegal and set the tone for the war on drugs was Harry Anslinger. During his tenure, Anslinger was a prominent figure in enforcing drug prohibition and aggressively campaigned against marijuana, influencing public opinion and policy. Public perception of marijuana was greatly shaped by propaganda, notably the 1936 film “Reefer Madness,” which depicted the substance as a dangerous drug leading to insanity and violence.
It was under the administration of President Richard Nixon in 1971 that the term "War on Drugs" was first used. Nixon's policy led to a significant increase in law enforcement efforts against drug-related activities. Subsequently, during the 1980s, harsher sentences for drug offenses became commonplace, with racial disparities in enforcement becoming a major point of contention. Critics argue the policies were racially biased, disproportionately affecting minorities and leading to severe long-term social consequences. The correct option is c) Harry Anslinger