This section contains 241 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) |
Support for the amendment remained strong in the years immediately following its ratification. As late as 1928, those calling for its repeal were a minority. Indications were that enforcement of the Volstead Act was having the intended effect, but clearly large numbers of people still wanted to drink. While overall production had been severely restricted, prices had risen accordingly, spawning an era of lawlessness greater than any in recent memory. Enforcement became increasingly difficult and, much to the disgust of Prohibition's adherents, unenthusiastic. Closing the legitimate channels of supply had given thousands the incentive to become bootleggers and operators of clubs that dispensed liquor and became infamous as "speakeasies." Liquor dealers in Canada, the Caribbean, and Europe provided a ready and unimpeded source of alcoholic beverages, and there were many who were prepared to risk arrest to take advantage of the opportunities afforded...
This section contains 241 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) |