What were the reasons for Prohibition and what were the results of the Prohibitions?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prohibition_in_the_United_States
One of the interesting results of Prohibition involves my mother-in-law. She drank no more than one glass of wine a year, yet she made many bottles of wine during Prohibition!
Prohibition, also known as the Noble Experiment, was a period in the United States from 1920 to 1933 when the production, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages were banned. There were several reasons that led to the implementation of Prohibition, and its consequences had a lasting impact on American society.
1. Temperance Movement: One of the main reasons for Prohibition was the influence of the temperance movement, which advocated for the reduction or complete avoidance of alcohol consumption. Many temperance activists believed that alcohol caused various social issues such as domestic violence, poverty, and criminal behavior.
2. Moral and Religious Concerns: The issue of alcohol was deeply rooted in moral and religious values. Many people viewed drinking as sinful behavior that needed to be eradicated to promote a more virtuous society.
3. World War I: During World War I, the temperance movement gained momentum as American leaders saw the consumption of alcohol as detrimental to the war effort. They believed that stopping the production and consumption of alcohol would free up resources and improve worker productivity.
The results of Prohibition were mixed and had both intended and unintended consequences:
1. Reduced Alcohol Consumption: Prohibition did succeed in reducing alcohol consumption in the United States. Per capita alcohol consumption dropped significantly during the period.
2. Rise of Organized Crime: Prohibition created a thriving illegal market for alcoholic beverages, leading to the rise of organized crime syndicates. Gangsters like Al Capone and bootleggers took advantage of the lucrative business, resulting in increased violence and lawlessness.
3. Growth of Speakeasies: Speakeasies were secret bars or establishments that operated illegally during Prohibition. These hidden venues became popular, providing people with access to alcohol and contributing to a nightlife culture of rebellion and secrecy.
4. Economic Impact: The ban on alcohol production and distribution had a negative impact on the economy. Many legitimate businesses, such as breweries and distilleries, were forced to close, leading to job losses and decreased tax revenues.
5. Repeal of Prohibition: Over time, it became evident that Prohibition was largely unsuccessful in achieving its intended goals. The inability to enforce the ban effectively, coupled with the negative social and economic consequences, led to the ratification of the 21st Amendment in 1933. This amendment repealed Prohibition and restored the legal sale and consumption of alcohol.
In summary, Prohibition was implemented for a multitude of reasons, including concerns over public morality, social issues related to alcohol, and wartime considerations. Although it did reduce alcohol consumption, it also gave rise to organized crime, undermined the economy, and ultimately led to its own repeal.