How Long Has it Been Around
Cocaine is one of the oldest, most potent and most dangerous stimulants of natural origin. Three thousand years before the birth of Christ, ancient Incas in the Andes chewed coca leaves to get their hearts racing and to speed their breathing to counter the effects of living in thin mountain air.
Crack has been around since the late 19th century. crack didn't emerge until around 100 years later in the 1980's.
Methamphetamine is more potent and easy to make, and was discovered in Japan in 1919. The crystalline powder was soluble in water, making it a perfect candidate for injection. It is still legally produced in the U.S., sold under the trade name Desoxyn.