Prohibition in the Early 1900s

Questions and Answers

How did prohibition affect corruption in the early 1900s?

Prohibition increased corruption because people ignored the law.

Which statement best describes the beliefs of the 'wets' in the early 1900s?

They supported the production of alcohol.

They thought prohibition would improve society.

They believed prohibition would reduce crime.

They thought prohibition would take away people's rights. (correct)

Why did Congress pass the Volstead Act to go along with the Eighteenth Amendment?

The Volstead Act provided for the 18th amendment.

What did the 18th Amendment to the US Constitution accomplish?

It banned the production, sale, and transportation of alcohol in the US. Signup and view all the answers

Why did some proponents of Prohibition support the policy on religious grounds?

They viewed excessive drinking as immoral behavior. Signup and view all the answers

Who was John Scopes, the defendant in the 1925 Scopes trial?

A teacher. Signup and view all the answers

In the early 1900s, who was Al Capone?

Bootlegger. Signup and view all the answers

Why did taxes cause leaders to be reluctant about prohibition?

Income taxes were not created yet and the government relied on the liquor tax for funding. Signup and view all the answers

During the 1925 Scopes trial, what was the defense's main argument?

Evolution was a scientific fact. Signup and view all the answers

Why was the 21st Amendment to the US Constitution necessary?

To modify the 19th Amendment. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Prohibition Overview

Prohibition heightened corruption as many individuals disregarded the law, leading to increased illegal activities.
"Wets," opponents of Prohibition, believed it infringed upon personal liberties and rights.

Legislation and Amendments

The Volstead Act was enacted to facilitate enforcement of the Eighteenth Amendment, which prohibited the production, sale, and transport of alcohol.
The 18th Amendment was significant as it marked the beginning of nationwide alcohol prohibition in the United States.

Motivations for Prohibition

Some supporters of Prohibition championed it from a religious perspective, seeing rampant alcohol consumption as immoral.

Notable Figures

John Scopes, a key figure in the 1925 Scopes Trial, was a teacher charged with violating laws against teaching evolution.
Al Capone rose to infamy in the early 1900s as a notorious bootlegger, capitalizing on the demand for illegal alcohol.

Economic Considerations

Leaders hesitated to endorse Prohibition due to the absence of income taxes, as the government relied heavily on liquor taxes for revenue.

Educational Debates

During the Scopes Trial, the defense contended that evolution was a scientific reality, highlighting the clash between science and religious beliefs.

Constitutional Changes

The 21st Amendment was crucial as it repealed the Eighteenth Amendment, restoring the legality of alcohol in the United States.

Description

This quiz explores the impact of Prohibition in the early 1900s, focusing on its effects on corruption and the beliefs of those who opposed it. Test your knowledge on the historical aspects and legislation associated with this significant era in American history.