Prohibition

Definition

Prohibition refers to the legal ban on the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages in the United States from 1920 to 1933, enforced by the 18th Amendment and the Volstead Act. This period saw significant social changes, influencing cultural movements and music, particularly jazz and blues, as it drove nightlife underground and fueled the rise of speakeasies and the jazz scene.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Prohibition led to the rise of organized crime as gangsters took control of the illegal alcohol trade, creating a culture of violence and corruption.
2. Jazz music became a prominent soundtrack for speakeasies, where musicians thrived in this vibrant yet illicit nightlife, attracting diverse audiences.
3. The cultural impact of blues music also flourished during this time, with artists expressing themes of hardship and rebellion against oppressive social norms.
4. Prohibition was intended to improve social morals, but instead, it contributed to a decrease in respect for law and authority as many people openly defied it.
5. The negative effects of Prohibition, including increased crime rates and public discontent, eventually led to its repeal in 1933 with the 21st Amendment.

Review Questions

• How did Prohibition influence the growth of jazz and blues music during its era?
  • Prohibition created an environment where jazz and blues music could thrive as musicians sought opportunities in hidden venues known as speakeasies. These underground establishments became hubs for nightlife, allowing artists to showcase their talents while patrons enjoyed drinks illegally. The rebellious spirit of both genres resonated with audiences who were seeking escape from the constraints imposed by Prohibition, making jazz and blues integral to this unique cultural landscape.
• Discuss the role of organized crime during Prohibition and its impact on American society.
  • Organized crime surged during Prohibition as criminal enterprises took advantage of the high demand for illegal alcohol. Gangs dominated the bootlegging industry, leading to violent turf wars and widespread corruption within law enforcement. The public's growing disillusionment with Prohibition highlighted the gap between law enforcement and everyday citizens, ultimately undermining respect for the law itself and prompting calls for change.
• Evaluate how Prohibition reflected societal attitudes toward morality and behavior in early 20th century America.
  • Prohibition was rooted in the belief that banning alcohol would lead to improved social morals and healthier lifestyles. However, its actual outcome revealed a disconnect between societal intentions and realities, as it fostered an underground culture characterized by defiance and excess. This paradox illustrated a broader tension in early 20th century America, where traditional values clashed with modernity. The eventual repeal of Prohibition signified a shift towards recognizing personal freedoms over imposed moral codes, paving the way for evolving social attitudes.

Related terms

Speakeasy: An illicit establishment that sold alcoholic beverages during Prohibition, often hidden and requiring a secretive entrance.

Jazz Age: A term used to describe the period in the 1920s characterized by the popularity of jazz music and a cultural shift towards modernity and liberation.

Bootlegging: The illegal production and distribution of alcohol during Prohibition, often associated with organized crime.