Prohibition in America

Paper Summary:

This paper looks at why the 18th Amendment, better known as Prohibition, was thought necessary and what forces were behind its ratification. The paper explores the many social, political, and economic factors and dynamics prevalent in America at the time of the Amendment's ratification, which led to its passing.

From the Paper:

"But first, it should be emphasized that booze was not always thought of as a bad thing in America, according to Battling Demon Rum: The Struggle for a Dry America, 1800-1933. Indeed, in 1758, the "Father" of our nation, George Washington, "spent thirty-seven pounds, seven shillings to win a seat , in the legislature " and the money went for "brandy, rum, cyder, strong beer and wine" (Pegram, ix). The alcohol was consumed by voters ("freeholders") on Election Day, in fact. Alcohol had been present as an essential component of life from the establishment of the first colonial settlements (p7), Pegram explains. In fact, when the Puritan settlers arrived at Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1630, they carried with them "12 gallons of distilled spirits, 10,000 gallons of beer, and 120 hogshead of brewing malt.". It was commonplace for individuals to have ample supplies of homemade beer and hard cider " which was 7% alcohol " on hand."

More papers on Prohibition in America:

• Research Paper # 872 : "The Rise and Fall of Prohibition in America in the 1920's"
• Book Review # 118677 : "Prohibition in "The Great Gatsby"
• Argumentative Essay # 65919 : "Alcohol Use in America"

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