Origins By facebooker_2960489590631917 2737 BCE First marijuana crops in China 2732 BCE Shen Nung used marijuana as a medicinal remedy 10 BCE Inhalation of cannabis' smoke in Asian countries 8 BCE As a fiber for weaving in countries like Taiwan 700 Cannabis use for sexual purposes 770 Book printed on cannabis paper called "El Dharani". 1700 Spaniards transport marijuana to America 1799 Napoleon introduces marijuana in France 1900 Cannabis use began to be penalized in several countries 1911 Marijuana arrives in the United States. 1937 Marijuana was banned in the United States. 2001 Portugal abolishes penalties for possession of marijuana.