Jack Herer Timeline
Birth in Buffalo, New York
Jack Herer is born in Buffalo, NY, beginning the life of a man who would later become known worldwide as The Godfather of the modern day cannabis movement or the “Hemperor”.
Soldier First
At just 18, Jack serves as a military policeman in Korea. The discipline and sense of duty he learns here later fuel his fearless activism.
Discovery of Cannabis
Introduced to cannabis at age 30 by a young law student who teased him for being a “square,” Jack has an awakening that sparks his lifelong passion for the plant.
Judy’s Inspiration and GRASS!
Encouraged by Judy, Jack co-authors GRASS: The Marijuana Papers, which quickly becomes an underground hit and an early classic of cannabis literature.
H.E.M.P. and the Pledge
Jack co-founds H.E.M.P. (Help End Marijuana Prohibition) with “Captain” Ed Adair. Together they make a public pledge to fight prohibition until cannabis is free, igniting a nationwide grassroots movement.
Voter Registration & Activism
Jack and Ed devote themselves to cannabis legalization efforts across the U.S., supporting every major initiative and registering thousands of voters.
The Emperor Wears No Clothes
After a short stint in Federal Prison for registering voters to vote, Jack published his landmark second book—often called the “hemp bible.” It became the catalyst for the modern hemp and cannabis legalization movement.
Venice Beach Icon & Global Advocate
Jack becomes a fixture on the Venice Beach boardwalk and appears on multiple High Times covers, inspiring activists around the world.
Seattle Hempfest Speeches
From the very first Seattle Hempfest in 1990 until just before his passing, Jack electrified crowds with his calls for legalization at what grew into the world’s largest cannabis festival.
The “Jack Herer” Strain Debuts
Sensi Seeds releases the award-winning strain named in Jack’s honor, which soon becomes one of the most celebrated and influential cannabis varieties in the world.
Teaming with Dennis Peron to Pass Proposition 215
Jack joins forces with fellow activist Dennis Peron to help champion California’s Proposition 215, the landmark measure that legalized medical cannabis in the state—the first such law in the United States.
Emperor of Hemp Documentary
The PBS-aired film Emperor of Hemp, narrated by Peter Coyote, chronicles Jack’s life, activism, and the impact of his writings.
Jack Herer’s Last Speech at the Oregon Hempfest
Jack delivers his final public speech at the Oregon Hempfest, which can still be viewed on YouTube.
Passing and Enduring Legacy
Jack Herer passes away on April 15, 2010. Today his name stands for freedom and the fight for personal choice, and his writings remain a cornerstone of the global cannabis movement.
