Prohibition in the United States

The 18th Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified, marking the beginning of Prohibition. It prohibited the manufacture, sale, and transportation of intoxicating liquors. This amendment was the result of decades of advocacy by temperance movements, which argued that alcohol was responsible for many social problems.

Prohibition officially began in the United States, marking the start of a nationwide constitutional ban on the production, importation, transportation, and sale of alcoholic beverages. This era led to the rise of bootlegging, speakeasies, and organized crime as people sought ways to circumvent the law.

The Volstead Act, formally known as the National Prohibition Act, took effect, providing for the enforcement of the 18th Amendment. It defined intoxicating liquor as any beverage containing more than 0.5% alcohol and set penalties for violations. The act was named after Andrew Volstead, Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee.

The Wall Street Crash of 1929, also known as Black Tuesday, marked the beginning of the Great Depression. The economic downturn put additional pressure on the government to reconsider Prohibition, as the potential tax revenue from legal alcohol sales became increasingly attractive.

Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected President of the United States, promising a 'New Deal' for the American people. His election signaled a shift in public opinion towards Prohibition, as he openly supported its repeal, arguing that it would create jobs and generate tax revenue during the Great Depression.

Congress passed the 21st Amendment, which proposed the repeal of the 18th Amendment, effectively ending Prohibition. The amendment was quickly ratified by the states, reflecting a significant change in public opinion and the recognition of the failures of Prohibition.

The 21st Amendment was ratified, officially repealing the 18th Amendment and ending Prohibition in the United States. This marked the first and only time in U.S. history that a constitutional amendment was repealed by another amendment, highlighting the widespread recognition of Prohibition's failure.