The Temperance Movement in the United States

Origins and Early Development

• Benjamin Rush: A well-known physician who advocated for moderate alcohol consumption, influencing the temperance movement.
• Connecticut Temperance Society: Formed by over 200 farmers, inspired by Rush's teachings.
• American Temperance Society: Established in 1826, quickly grew to 1.5 million members by 1835.
• Momentum in the 1840s-1850s: Movement gained strength but waned during the 1860s due to the Civil War.

Revival and Organizational Efforts

• Prohibition Party (1869) and Woman's Christian Temperance Union (1873): Led the post-war revival of the movement.
• Carrie A. Nation: Notable leader known for her aggressive actions against alcohol establishments.

Legislative Achievements

• Kansas (1881): First state to outlaw alcohol sales and consumption.
• Local Prohibition: Some towns and counties also implemented bans.

Social and Political Impact

• "Wet" vs. "Dry" Divide: Nation divided over alcohol; Wets supported alcohol, while Drys opposed.
  • Drys: Mainly Protestant groups (e.g., Methodists, Baptists, Presbyterians).
  • Wets: Catholics and others who opposed governmental morality imposition.
• Dry Arguments: Alcohol linked to family damage, abuse, poor health, and poverty.
• Pamphlets and Education: Used to spread the Dry message through scientific data, religious scripture, and school indoctrination.

National Politics and the 18th Amendment

• Limited National Political Discussion: Bipartisan membership in both Wet and Dry camps delayed political action.
• Congressional Support: By 1917, Drys outnumbered Wets in Congress (278 vs. 126).
• 18th Amendment: Passed in December 1917 to prohibit alcohol manufacture, sale, and transportation.
  • Mississippi: First state to ratify on January 8, 1919.
  • Nationwide Ratification: Achieved by January 16, 1919, becoming the 18th Amendment.
  • Enforcement: Took effect on January 16, 1920, leading to nationwide prohibition, making the U.S. "dry".