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key term - 21st Amendment

Definition

The 21st Amendment to the United States Constitution repealed the 18th Amendment, effectively ending the era of Prohibition. Ratified on December 5, 1933, it marked a significant shift in American social policy regarding alcohol consumption and regulation. This amendment allowed for the legal manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages, reflecting changing public attitudes toward alcohol and government regulation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The 21st Amendment is unique because it is the only amendment that directly repeals another amendment.
  2. The ratification process for the 21st Amendment was notably swift, taking less than a year from proposal to ratification.
  3. The amendment led to a significant increase in tax revenue for state and federal governments due to the legalized sale of alcohol.
  4. The end of Prohibition through the 21st Amendment contributed to a cultural shift, with alcohol becoming more socially accepted in American life.
  5. While the amendment ended national Prohibition, it allowed states to regulate alcohol as they saw fit, leading to varying laws across the country.

Review Questions

  • How did the 21st Amendment represent a response to public sentiment regarding Prohibition?
    • The 21st Amendment was a direct response to widespread dissatisfaction with Prohibition, which had been established by the 18th Amendment. As illegal drinking establishments, known as speakeasies, thrived during Prohibition and organized crime increased, public opinion shifted in favor of legalizing alcohol. The amendment reflected this change in sentiment, indicating that many Americans believed that regulating alcohol was more effective than outright banning it.
  • In what ways did the repeal of Prohibition through the 21st Amendment impact state laws and regulations concerning alcohol?
    • The repeal of Prohibition via the 21st Amendment granted individual states the authority to regulate alcohol as they chose. This led to a patchwork of laws across the country, with some states imposing strict regulations or even choosing to remain dry, while others embraced legal alcohol sales. This variance allowed states to address local values and needs concerning alcohol consumption and generated debates over regulation versus individual freedom.
  • Evaluate the long-term societal implications of the 21st Amendment on American culture and policy towards alcohol consumption.
    • The ratification of the 21st Amendment not only marked the end of Prohibition but also shaped long-term societal attitudes toward alcohol in America. It facilitated a cultural acceptance of alcohol consumption as part of social life and altered perceptions about government regulation of personal behavior. Additionally, it set a precedent for future discussions about substance control and public health policies, as seen in later debates regarding drugs and their legality. The amendment's legacy continues to influence contemporary views on personal freedom versus government intervention.