Temperance movement in the United States

Temperance Movement in the United States

The temperance movement in the United States was a social and political campaign aimed at reducing the consumption of alcoholic beverages. It emerged in the early 19th century and gained momentum throughout the century, culminating in the Prohibition era of the early 20th century. The movement was driven by a combination of religious, moral, and health concerns, and it played a significant role in shaping American society and politics.

The Drunkard's Progress, illustrating the perceived dangers of alcohol consumption

Origins and Early Development

The temperance movement began in the early 1800s, influenced by the Second Great Awakening, a religious revival that emphasized personal morality and social reform. Early temperance advocates, such as Lyman Beecher and John Bartholomew Gough, argued that alcohol was a source of social ills, including poverty, crime, and family violence. They promoted the idea of "temperance," which initially meant moderation in drinking but later evolved into a call for total abstinence.

The first temperance societies were formed in the 1820s, with the American Temperance Society being established in 1826. These organizations used pamphlets, lectures, and rallies to spread their message, and they encouraged individuals to pledge abstinence from alcohol.

Growth and Influence

By the mid-19th century, the temperance movement had gained significant traction. The Washingtonian movement, founded in 1840, was particularly influential, as it focused on personal testimonials and mutual support among reformed drinkers. The movement also gained support from various religious denominations, including the Methodist Church and the Baptist Church.

A temperance map from 1838, illustrating the spread of the movement

The movement's influence extended into politics, with the formation of the Prohibition Party in 1869. This party advocated for the legal prohibition of alcohol and played a role in local and state elections.

Women's Role in the Movement

Women played a crucial role in the temperance movement, as they were often the most affected by the negative consequences of alcohol abuse. The Women's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU), founded in 1874, became one of the most powerful organizations advocating for temperance. Under the leadership of figures like Frances Willard, the WCTU expanded its focus to include women's suffrage and other social reforms.

The Black Valley Rail Road, a satirical depiction of the path to ruin through alcohol

Prohibition and Its Aftermath

The temperance movement's efforts culminated in the passage of the Eighteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution in 1919, which established national prohibition of alcohol. The Volstead Act provided for the enforcement of prohibition, which lasted from 1920 to 1933.

Prohibition led to a decline in alcohol consumption but also gave rise to illegal activities such as bootlegging and speakeasies. The social and economic challenges of prohibition eventually led to its repeal with the Twenty-first Amendment in 1933.

Legacy

The temperance movement had a lasting impact on American society. It contributed to the development of modern social reform movements and highlighted the role of women in advocacy and politics. The movement also left a legacy of alcohol regulation and public health awareness.

Harriman Temperance University, circa 1906, a symbol of the educational efforts of the movement

Related Pages

• Prohibition in the United States
• Women's Christian Temperance Union
• Eighteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution
• Volstead Act

Temperance Fountain in Tompkins Square Park, a monument to the movement's ideals

See Also

• Second Great Awakening
• Prohibition Party
• Frances Willard