Volstead Act
The rules for enforcing the federal ban of alcohol
Real World Example
The Volstead Act, passed in 1919, was crucial because it enforced Prohibition, a period when alcohol production and sale were illegal in the U.S. This act highlighted tensions between those who supported traditional values and those who wanted more personal freedom, a conflict that still exists today regarding issues like substance regulation. The law led to the rise of illegal speakeasies and organized crime, showing how strict laws can sometimes create unintended problems. Today, similar debates happen around the legalization of marijuana, with discussions about individual rights versus societal safety. Understanding these historical tensions helps us navigate current discussions about how laws affect personal freedom and societal norms.
