Celebrate legal drinking
Today is the 75th anniversary date of the officially repealed of prohibition in America with the ratification of the 21st Amendment to the Constitution. On December 5, 1933, a 3/4 majority of states needed to ratify the 21st Amendment was reached when Utah adopted the 21st Amendment. It not only officially ended national Prohibition which began with the 18th Amendment in 1919; the 21st Amendment also established the effective, state-based system of alcohol regulation that today works to efficiently provide American consumers with an unparalleled choice and variety of beer.
The main factors that contributed to prohibition repeal in December 1933 were the lack of public support for prohibition, the growth role of organized crime, the problems of enforcing the law with the lack of border control and sufficient agent resources as well as the fact that some supporters of prohibition changed their attitudes to disagree with it. Economic and political factors of the time also pushed the 21st amendment into the picture because of the need to increase any forms of regular business in a slowed depression economy.
Today, America’s 2,750 licensed beer distributors – which are licensed by both the states and the federal government – are the critical link in the three-tier system of beer distribution, sourcing fresh beer only from federally-licensed brewers and importers and supplying it only to licensed retailers including restaurants and convenience stores.
Unlike other countries around the world, the American beer distribution system creates a clear chain of custody and provides transparency, accountability and traceability. Beer distributors are able to track the product from the time it leaves the brewer or importer until the time it reaches a licensed retailer. This regulated market works to protect American consumers from “bootlegging” and poisonous or counterfeit alcohol which is still a problem in many countries.
So while at a bar this week know that the practice of savoring your favorite beer or cocktail was an illegal activity more than 75 years ago today. Cheers with friends!
