There have been several bills and politicians over time that have contributed to the illegality of drugs such as marijuana and opioids. This includes:
- The Harrison Act of 1914
- The Marijuana tax Act of 1937
- Ronald Reagan and his declaration of a "war on drugs"
- The Comprehensive Crime Act of 1984


History of Illegal Drug Markets

Although still illegal in most areas of the U.S., the market for prostitution is thriving. Like in many places, the advent of the internet has aided the transition from outdoor prostitution (i.e., "streetwalking") to indoor prostitution, such as massage parlors and online arrangements. The indoor market makes up approximately 85% of the overall market, which itself generates approximately $14 billion per year in the U.S. alone.

The Market for Prostitution

There are many black markets, including (but not limited to):
- illegal drugs
- sex work/prostitution
- human trafficking
- illegal wildlife

University of Oklahoma

Black markets are the markets for illegal goods and services. These markets are also called underground, illegal, clandestine, and shadow markets. A common underground market is that for illegal drugs.

Black Markets

Kenton, W. (2021, May 29). Black Market. Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/b/blackmarket.asp. 

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