Prohibition 1920-1933: Unintended Consequences — Reading Comprehension

The United States enacted Prohibition in 1920, making it illegal to produce, sell, or transport alcoholic beverages nationwide. This major policy change was the result of a long campaign by reformers who believed alcohol was responsible for many social problems, such as crime, poverty, and family violence. Their motivation was to create a healthier, safer society. However, the story of Prohibition reveals how a solution to one problem can create many new challenges.

The 18th Amendment to the Constitution, ratified in 1919, established Prohibition. Congress passed the Volstead Act to enforce the law. Many Americans supported these changes at first, especially groups like the Women's Christian Temperance Union. They hoped that banning alcohol would result in less crime and stronger families. One leader, Wayne Wheeler, stated, "There never was a greater measure for the uplift of humanity." This quote shows the high hopes some citizens had for Prohibition's success.

Yet, not all Americans agreed. Many immigrants and working-class people saw alcohol as an important part of their culture and social life. Some businesses suffered, especially breweries and taverns, while others found clever ways to get around the law. These differing perspectives created deep divisions in society. In cities, illegal bars called speakeasies became popular. People who wanted to drink found ways to do so, even if it meant breaking the law.

Prohibition also had several unintended consequences. The ban on alcohol did not end drinking, but instead gave rise to new criminal activities. Bootleggers smuggled alcohol into the country, while organized crime groups, such as Al Capone's gang in Chicago, made huge profits by controlling the illegal liquor trade. Police and government officials often struggled to enforce the law, and some even accepted bribes to ignore illegal activities. The law that was meant to reduce crime actually allowed criminal organizations to grow stronger and richer.

Rural areas and cities experienced Prohibition differently. In small towns, enforcement was sometimes stricter and there was more community support. In large cities, law enforcement was often overwhelmed by the scale of illegal operations. The media reported on the failures of Prohibition and the corruption it caused among officials. Over time, public opinion shifted. More citizens began to question whether the law was effective or fair.

By the early 1930s, the negative effects of Prohibition were clear. The Great Depression increased pressure on the government to create jobs and raise money through taxes. Many leaders argued that legalizing alcohol would help. In 1933, the 21st Amendment repealed Prohibition, ending the nationwide experiment. The United States learned that even well-intentioned laws can have complex results. Some historians argue that Prohibition taught Americans valuable lessons about the limits of government power and the importance of considering different viewpoints when making laws.

Interesting Fact: The 21st Amendment is the only amendment that has ever repealed another amendment in U.S. history.

What year did Prohibition begin?

Which amendment started Prohibition?

Who was a famous crime leader during Prohibition?

Why did reformers support Prohibition?

What was an unintended effect of Prohibition?

What is a speakeasy?

Prohibition ended in 1933. True or false?

What does 'bootlegger' mean?