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December 5th marks the anniversary of the day that the United States repealed the 18th amendment, ending thirteen dark years of Prohibition, and restoring the right for Americans to purchase and consume alcohol once again. Today is a pretty big holiday for us at the American Craft Beer offices. Some of us have been celebrating since 7 am this morning and we suggest that you find some time to as well.
The 18th Amendment, which was ratified on January 16, 1919, was a horrible idea to begin with. It prohibited the manufacture, sale, and transportation of liquor throughout the United States and caused all kinds of problems. Prohibition led to widespread disrespect for the law and basically gave birth to organized crime. It was also a period when Americans were deprived of all the rich customs associated with drinking – its production and consumption – that had long been an intrinsic part of our social fabric.
Eventually, the Nation awoke to the widespread problems that Prohibition had created and fueled, and support for it began to wane. And thanks to a growing populace of outraged citizens and public figures, such as John D. Rockefeller Jr. who came forward and championed a counter movement, this monstrosity was eventually dismantled. The 21st Amendment ending Prohibition was ratified on December 5, 1933 and in time the world became a more reasonable place.
Repeal Day is a celebration of the individual freedom that allows each American citizen to choose whether or not to drink alcohol as well as a tribute to our constitutional rights.
So raise a glass everyone. This day truly matters and should never be forgotten – because the freedoms we enjoy today are too important – and they should never be taken for granted.
