It is argued that the strategy was successful since the use of illegal drugs in the United States declined between 1988 and 1991 by almost 13 percent. In 1991, 25 percent fewer young people were current drug users than in 1988, and drug use by high school seniors fell to its lowest level since 1975. A historical overview of drug prevention efforts in the United States is presented. Reasons why people use drugs are discussed; drug prevention policies and principles are examined that emphasize the family, the community, and high-risk populations; and common ingredients of successful drug prevention programs are identified. Promising drug prevention strategies are described that include school-based programs, media campaigns, mentoring, resistance training, drug-free activities, early childhood programs, community coalitions, and user accountability. Ways of measuring the effectiveness of drug prevention programs are noted, the Federal role in drug prevention is considered, and prevention is cited as an essential component of a comprehensive drug control strategy. A list of drug prevention resources is provided. 2 figures