In Episode 17 Korey Jones brings on Professor Pablo Ben from San Diego State University. Pablo discusses the early history of the coca leaf which, in fact is isolated by German chemist Albert Niemann. Pablo explains how cocaine shaped Latin America and how the United States policies put into place to combat the war on drugs failed, only creating more violence and consumption of drugs throughout the world.

If you would like to know more about cocaine and how it shaped Latin America click on the links below.

https://www.nytimes.com/video/world/americas/1247467896553/peru-s-coca-conflict.html?action=click&contentCollection=Americas&module=RelatedCoverage®ion=Marginalia&pgtype=article

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/06/14/world/americas/14peru.html?mcubz=1