Prohibition

Definition

Prohibition refers to the legal ban on the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages in the United States, enforced from 1920 to 1933 through the 18th Amendment and the Volstead Act. This period is closely linked to the temperance movement, which aimed to reduce or eliminate alcohol consumption, largely influenced by social reformers and religious groups who believed that alcohol was responsible for many societal problems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Prohibition led to a significant increase in organized crime as illegal operations took over the alcohol market, including notorious figures like Al Capone.
2. The temperance movement was primarily supported by women, who argued that alcohol contributed to domestic violence and poverty, driving their involvement in social reform.
3. Many individuals and groups who opposed Prohibition engaged in civil disobedience, leading to widespread noncompliance with the law and the establishment of underground bars called speakeasies.
4. Prohibition caused economic disruptions, leading to job losses in breweries and distilleries while also reducing government tax revenues from alcohol sales.
5. In 1933, Prohibition was repealed by the 21st Amendment due to its unpopularity and the realization that it had failed to eliminate alcohol consumption.

Review Questions

• How did the temperance movement influence the passage of Prohibition in the United States?
  • The temperance movement significantly influenced Prohibition by mobilizing support from various social reformers, religious groups, and women's organizations. These advocates argued that alcohol was a root cause of societal issues such as domestic violence, crime, and poverty. Their persistent campaigning and lobbying efforts contributed to public sentiment favoring a ban on alcohol, ultimately leading to the ratification of the 18th Amendment and the enforcement of Prohibition.
• Discuss the social consequences of Prohibition on American society during its enforcement from 1920 to 1933.
  • The enforcement of Prohibition resulted in several significant social consequences for American society. It gave rise to organized crime as criminal syndicates capitalized on the illegal alcohol trade, leading to increased violence and corruption. Additionally, many Americans engaged in civil disobedience by frequenting speakeasies and participating in underground drinking culture, which challenged traditional views on law and order. The resulting conflict between societal norms and legal restrictions created a culture of resistance that ultimately led to widespread dissatisfaction with Prohibition.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of Prohibition on gender roles within American society, particularly concerning women's activism.
  • Prohibition had lasting effects on gender roles in American society by amplifying women's activism and reshaping their public identities. Women played a crucial role in advocating for temperance, linking alcohol consumption to social problems like domestic violence. As they became more politically active during this time, it paved the way for greater involvement in other social justice movements. The experience of working together for a common cause helped women build networks and gain confidence, setting a precedent for future activism that would contribute to advancements in women's rights.

Related terms

Temperance Movement: A social movement advocating for the reduction or prohibition of alcohol consumption, largely driven by women and religious groups in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

18th Amendment: The constitutional amendment ratified in 1919 that prohibited the manufacture, sale, and transportation of intoxicating liquors in the United States.

Speakeasy: An illicit establishment that sold alcoholic beverages during the Prohibition era, often hidden and requiring a password for entry.