The World War One Years 1917-1920 - The 18th Amendment - Volstead Act (1919)

The 18th Amendment and the Volstead Act of 1919 initiated the prohibition of alcohol, leading to significant social and legal challenges in the 1920s. Despite efforts by law enforcement and activists like Carrie Nation, prohibition was widely ignored, especially in urban areas, resulting in the rise of illegal speakeasies and organized crime figures like Al Capone. The inability to enforce prohibition laws and the increase in crime led to the repeal of the 18th Amendment with the ratification of the 21st Amendment in 1933, ending the prohibition era.

What was the main purpose of the 18th Amendment?

Who was Carrie Nation and what was her role in the temperance movement?

What were speakeasies and how did they relate to Prohibition?

How did Prohibition contribute to the rise of organized crime in the 1920s?

What led to the repeal of the 18th Amendment in 1933?