The glorious history of amphetamines

Recent news from the meth capital of the world (that would be San Diego, according to folks at the North County times) tells the tale of a drug that helped fashion the look and feel of the late 20th century, including the emergence of kamikazes, beatniks, bikers, and street gangs. Yup, meth is famous! Here's a look back at its troubled infancy:

Despite signs of the drug's abuse, the military in World War II realized the potential for a pill that would help troops stay awake for days during battles and keep pilots alert on long bombing missions. American GIs may have consumed up to 200 million amphetamine tablets, including many made at a San Diego naval base, Owen wrote.

Meanwhile, German blitzkrieg strikes and suicidal Japanese kamikaze and banzai attacks may have been inspired by something more than fearless nationalism; those nations supplied their forces with Pervitin and Isophan, brand names for methamphetamine.

And it's great for truckers and parties too! Read more to see how amphetamines make our world go round. Thanks meth!