Prohibition Era

Definition

The Prohibition Era refers to the period in the United States from 1920 to 1933 when the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages were constitutionally outlawed by the 18th Amendment. This period was marked by a rise in organized crime, the establishment of speakeasies, and a significant cultural shift, all of which influenced the transition from ragtime to early jazz. Jazz music flourished during this time as it became a soundtrack for nightlife in underground clubs, reflecting the rebellious spirit of the era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Prohibition Era began on January 17, 1920, when the 18th Amendment took effect, leading to the closing of legal breweries and distilleries.
2. During Prohibition, jazz music became increasingly popular as it resonated with a youth culture that embraced rebellion against traditional norms.
3. Speakeasies often featured live jazz bands, providing musicians with opportunities to perform in a vibrant underground scene.
4. The era saw the rise of famous jazz musicians like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington, who shaped the sound of early jazz that thrived in illicit venues.
5. Prohibition ultimately failed to curb alcohol consumption and was repealed in 1933 by the 21st Amendment due to widespread disregard for the law and its social consequences.

Review Questions

• How did the Prohibition Era contribute to the growth and popularity of jazz music during this time?
  • The Prohibition Era played a significant role in the growth of jazz music as it created an underground culture centered around speakeasies where alcohol was served illegally. These venues became hotspots for live performances, allowing jazz musicians to reach wider audiences. The music's energetic and improvisational nature matched the rebellious spirit of patrons looking for escape from societal constraints imposed by Prohibition.
• In what ways did organized crime shape the musical landscape during the Prohibition Era?
  • Organized crime had a substantial impact on the musical landscape during the Prohibition Era by controlling many speakeasies where jazz was performed. These criminal enterprises profited from illegal alcohol sales while also investing in entertainment venues that showcased jazz musicians. This relationship between crime and music created an environment where jazz flourished but also became intertwined with the darker aspects of society during this tumultuous time.
• Evaluate how the cultural changes brought about by Prohibition influenced American society's view on music and nightlife in the years following its repeal.
  • The cultural changes brought by Prohibition significantly altered American society's view on music and nightlife. With the repeal in 1933, there was a newfound appreciation for the vibrant jazz culture that had developed underground. The association of jazz with rebellion and freedom became a symbol of modernity. This shift led to more acceptance of diverse musical styles and nightlife activities, ultimately laying the groundwork for future cultural movements such as swing and rhythm & blues in subsequent decades.

Related terms

Speakeasy: An illicit bar or nightclub that operated during Prohibition, where patrons could enjoy alcohol and live music, often featuring jazz performances.

Jazz Age: A term used to describe the 1920s in America, characterized by the popularity of jazz music, cultural change, and a general sense of liberation following World War I.

Organized Crime: Criminal organizations that emerged during Prohibition, profiting from the illegal production and distribution of alcohol, which significantly impacted society and culture.