Big Apple History . Business and Politics . America Goes Dry


	A federal agent smashes barrels of liquor during Prohibition.

During the 1800s, some Americans were worried that people in the U.S. drank too much alcohol. Eventually, these people -- nicknamed "drys" -- formed the Prohibition Party. Their goal was to eliminate, or at least limit, the use of beer, wine, and hard liquor. The "drys" gained support from many ministers and physicians who blamed alcohol for poverty, health problems, and family difficulties. By the start of World War I in 1914, many states had passed laws that limited or banned the sale of alcohol.

The Prohibition Party's ultimate wish became a reality in December 1917. At that time, Congress approved the 18th Amendment to the Constitution. This amendment stated that, as of 1920, it would be illegal for Americans to manufacture, sell, or transport any "intoxicating liquors."

New York congressman Fiorello H. La Guardia summarized many New Yorkers' feelings about this amendment. He said that Prohibition was a "noble experiment" but was unenforceable, encouraged people to break the law, and discriminated against members of ethnic groups and cultural traditions that drank alcohol in moderation as part of meals and other basic social rituals.

Illustration: Courtesy of Culver Pictures.