Underground drinking culture

Definition

Underground drinking culture refers to the clandestine practices surrounding the consumption of alcohol during periods of prohibition, where individuals and groups sought ways to defy laws against alcohol production and sale. This culture emerged as a response to prohibition laws, leading to the creation of secret bars, known as speakeasies, and a vibrant social scene that revolved around illegal drinking establishments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The underground drinking culture became prominent in Canada during the early 20th century as provinces implemented their own prohibition laws, leading to widespread illegal activities related to alcohol.
2. Speakeasies served as social hubs for those seeking to enjoy alcohol, often featuring live music and entertainment, fostering a sense of community among patrons who defied the law.
3. Women played an important role in the underground drinking culture, challenging traditional gender norms by participating in drinking and socializing in public spaces.
4. Law enforcement struggled to enforce prohibition laws effectively, leading to widespread corruption and complicity among police who often turned a blind eye to illegal drinking establishments.
5. The underground drinking culture laid the groundwork for a shift in societal attitudes towards alcohol consumption, ultimately contributing to the repeal of prohibition laws in various provinces across Canada.

Review Questions

• How did underground drinking culture challenge societal norms during the era of prohibition?
  • Underground drinking culture significantly challenged societal norms by promoting social gatherings that contradicted established beliefs about alcohol consumption. Speakeasies became places where diverse groups came together, breaking down barriers between different social classes and genders. This defiance of prohibition laws not only fostered a sense of rebellion but also contributed to changing attitudes towards alcohol and its role in society.
• In what ways did speakeasies contribute to the social dynamics of underground drinking culture during prohibition?
  • Speakeasies were crucial to the social dynamics of underground drinking culture as they provided safe spaces for people to gather and enjoy alcohol despite the legal restrictions. These hidden bars facilitated interactions among individuals from various backgrounds, creating a sense of camaraderie among patrons. Additionally, they became cultural hotspots featuring live music and entertainment, which further solidified their importance in shaping a distinct social identity within the underground drinking scene.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of underground drinking culture on Canadian society after the repeal of prohibition laws.
  • The underground drinking culture had a profound long-term impact on Canadian society following the repeal of prohibition laws. It shifted public perceptions of alcohol from being viewed solely as a vice to being accepted as part of social life. The experiences and attitudes cultivated in speakeasies contributed to a more relaxed approach towards alcohol consumption, influencing future policies and regulations around liquor licensing. This cultural shift paved the way for modern drinking establishments and nightlife, reflecting broader changes in societal values regarding leisure and consumption.

Related terms

Prohibition: A nationwide constitutional ban on the production, importation, transportation, and sale of alcoholic beverages in the United States from 1920 to 1933, which had similar effects in Canada.

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

Bootlegging: The illegal production or distribution of alcoholic beverages during Prohibition, often involving smuggling alcohol across borders.