Prohibition
This miniseries charts how a constitutional change aimed at improving American life reshaped attitudes toward alcohol, from its rise through enforcement and eventual repeal. It explores the era’s activism and consequences, showing how sweeping moral goals collided with real-world behavior and power.
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Season 1
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1
E1
A Nation of Drunkards
The start of the temperance movement in the 19th century under the stewardship of such leaders as Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Frances Willard and Carry Nation; and the Anti-Saloon League, which pushed for a constitutional amendment that would ban the sale and manufacture of alcohol.
Oct 2, 2011 · 95m -
2
E2
A Nation of Scofflaws
The problems that the Volstead Act and Prohibition caused, including a possible increase in alcoholism due to women frequenting the illicit speakeasies that replaced male-only saloons; adulterated liquor that poisons some drinkers; and civil-rights violations by overzealous federal agents anxious to make arrests. Despite the public's growing opposition to the ban, few politicians dare to speak against it due to the political might of the Anti-Saloon League.
Oct 3, 2011 · 111m -
3
E3
A Nation of Hypocrites
The factors that led to the end of Prohibition. The criminalizing of alcohol feeds large profits into the coffers of criminal organizations and turns such gangsters as Al Capone into celebrities. Wealthy Pauline Sabin encourages the repeal of the 18th Amendment; and brings together women from all classes who support her position. The 21st Amendment, which repeals the 18th, is adopted after Franklin D. Roosevelt's 1932 election and by late 1933 people can again legally buy drinks.
Oct 4, 2011 · 105m
