USA --> Prohibition Flashcards
What was Prohibition in the USA?
Prohibition was a period between 1920-1933 when alcohol was banned in the USA, enforced by the 18th Amendment to the Constitution.
What was the Valstead Act, and what did it specify during Prohibition?
The Valstead Act of 1919 outlined the rules of Prohibition, making it illegal to manufacture, sell, and transport alcohol with a ban on drinks containing over 0.5% alcohol.
Why was Prohibition introduced?
social & political reasons:
–>driven by temperance groups like the Anti-Saloon League and religious groups
-bc alcohol caused crime+violence / seen against God’s will / unhealthy
Economic reasons:
-reduced workers efficiency (Henry Ford thought this)
What were the attitudes towards Prohibition?
“Dries” supported Prohibition, believing alcohol damaged family life
“Wets” disliked Prohibition, viewing drinking as a popular pastime and an essential part of community culture
What were the consequences of Prohibition?
1+4
led to illegal activities like speakeasies, bootlegging, and an increase in organized crime.
Alcohol-related deaths rose,
corruption spread,
and the law’s respect diminished
Gangland murders in cities, such as Chicago, increased
Why did Prohibition fail? (4)
failed due to the difficulty of enforcing the Valstead Act,
lack of public support,
ready availability of alcohol through illegal means,
ineffective government officials
How did organized crime manifest during Prohibition?
Organized crime, especially Mafia gangsters like Al Capone, took advantage of Prohibition.
Gangland wars and violent events, such as the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, marked this era.
When did Prohibition end, and what were the reasons for its termination?
1+5
The 21st Amendment in 1933 ended Prohibition.
Reasons:
1) unenforceability of Prohibition,
2) unregulated alcohol production leading to deaths,
3) increased crime rates,
4)high enforcement costs,
5) need for jobs during rising unemployment in the late 1920s
