The prohibition and temperance movement was closely related to the spirit of reform that dominated the Progressive Era. The Progressive Era, which spanned from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, was characterized by a broad movement for social and political change aimed at addressing societal problems and improving the lives of individuals.
The temperance movement, which sought to reduce or eliminate the consumption of alcohol, was a significant part of this reform movement. Proponents of temperance argued that alcohol consumption led to various social ills, including domestic violence, poverty, and crime. They believed that by curbing or banning alcohol, they could promote social order, morality, and overall societal improvement.
Many progressive reformers supported the temperance movement and viewed it as a means to achieve their broader goals. They saw alcohol as a contributing factor to corruption, inequality, and other social problems. By advocating for temperance, they aimed to create a more just and equitable society.
The culmination of the temperance movement was the enactment of the 18th Amendment to the United States Constitution in 1920, which prohibited the manufacturing, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages. However, the prohibition era faced challenges, including widespread non-compliance, the rise of organized crime, and the realization that the ban on alcohol did not lead to the anticipated positive societal changes.
