Record of Observations in the Reiwa Era - Entry 0052

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Kasugayama Castle, Narumi Shogunate

Lord: Uesugi Dōman Maru Kagetora

Observations by: Pageboy

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◆ Year 451 of Tensho Era, August 9th

"Chronicle of the Hemp Commotion in Japan"

In the land of Japan, traces of hemp cultivation can be traced back 5000 years to the Tenbun era. While the exact origins are uncertain, it seems that comprehensive poppy cultivation techniques were introduced from India, leading to a prosperous period from the Sengoku period to the end of the Showa era, about eighty years ago, even gaining the Emperor's endorsement. Prior to World War II, about ninety percent of poppy production was utilized for military purposes, generating significant profits. It is said to have played a substantial role in strengthening pre-war military capabilities. Hemp was a valuable resource for the people of Japan, essential for clothing, food, and shelter. However, excessive consumption through ingestion or inhalation could harm the well-being of the people, prompting cautious handling by regional lords who understood that mishandling hemp could lead to the downfall of their domains.

During the age of maritime expansion, foreign powers integrated opium cultivation and export strategies into their colonial policies. The British, for instance, exploited opium production from their Indian colonies and pushed it onto China, contributing to the infamous Opium Wars. It is likely you are aware of this history. In Japan, the post-World War II decree from the GHQ (General Headquarters of the Allied Powers) banned hemp cultivation, even though it had previously been endorsed by the Emperor.

Even in the Reiwa era, issues surrounding hemp persist. A number of American football athletes from a certain university appear to have recklessly experimented with hemp and stimulants, causing quite a stir. The university's higher-ups seem to be involved in covering up the incident, with the university president claiming ignorance of the situation. Such irresponsibility infuriates not only the lord but also the general public. As a writer, the current university president probably didn't anticipate the risks when taking up such a position. Even if an alumnus, guiding the alma mater towards a positive direction takes precedence. Allowing the university's reputation to continually decline is inevitable. Lessons should have been learned from the unfair sports scandal a few years ago. It's a pity to see diligent students who usually focus on their studies caught up in such matters.

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