Have you ever wondered why Prohibition was so unsuccessful in the 1900's, yet the ban on other drugs has been strictly enforced?
The 18th Amendment to the Constitution in 1920 banned the manufacture, transportation and sale of alcohol in the United States until 1933, when it was appealed by the 21st Amendment. While Prohibition was enacted to prevent the "evil behaviors" associated with drinking alcohol, it actually caused a black market into which organized crime and gang violence became very prevalent.
This illegal production and sale of alcohol became known as bootlegging. Speakeasies were also opened, which were social places people could go to illegally drink alcohol. There were also people known as "rum runners", who smuggled alcohol across boarders, especially from Canada.
These were all reasons that Prohibition was so difficult to enforce. While America banned alcohol, it was still embedded into the daily lives of other countries. It was a huge part of their social lives, and many countries prided themselves on the quality of their wines.
Another reason that Prohibition did not last is the fact that alcohol has been part of worldwide culture for centuries, beginning with its religious roots. Alcoholic beverages appear in the Bible, and many other religions use it in their rituals. While drunkenness in condemned in the Bible, the use of alcohol in moderation has been part of the world's history. Alcohol, such as champagne, is also commonly used in celebrations.
Wines were also often used in the ancient Indian healing system of Ayurveda. This system of medicine recommends wine for some specific health conditions and for some certain body types.
Breweries and vineyards have been a huge part of the economy for ages, so taking alcohol away from the United States hurt economies worldwide.
Alcohol's use is so old and widespread, many people thought of Prohibition as an infringement of their basic rights.
Sources:
http://www.history.com/topics/prohibition
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eighteenth_Amendment_to_the_United_States_Constitution
http://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/volstead-act/
http://prohibitionrepeal.com/history/21st.asp
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/bootleg
http://www.thefreedictionary.com/speakeasies
http://www.vintageperiods.com/prohibition.php
http://visualartsminnesota.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Speakeasy.jpg
http://nccam.nih.gov/health/ayurveda
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