What was a key goal of the Harrison Narcotic Act of 1914?

The key goal of the Harrison Narcotic Act of 1914 was to curb the recreational use of opium and establish prescription requirements. This landmark legislation marked a significant shift in the approach to narcotics in the United States. The Act aimed to control the distribution and usage of narcotic drugs, which were widely abused at the time. By requiring prescriptions for the dispensing of opiates and cocaine, the Act sought to reduce the potential for addiction and misuse, effectively making it illegal to obtain these substances without a doctor's approval.

This legislative change was part of a broader public health initiative to address the rising concern over substance abuse and addiction. By controlling access to narcotics, the government aimed to protect public health while still allowing for medications to be used therapeutically under medical supervision.