Repeal of Prohibition
On Friday, December 5th, just a few days ago, I found myself heading out for a bit of a relaxation to my favorite place to do so. It has been more than a rough week or two and I ready for social interaction with some of my friends that I might run into and at least acquaintances. As I entered I noted big banners proclaiming the 75th anniversary celebration of the repeal of prohibition. I was more than happy to assist with the celebration of such, especially given that I think any kind of laws passed at an attempt to morally tell someone what they can and can not do is wrong.
A brief history of the situation includes that in 1919 the 18th amendment was ratified, on the efforts of various groups, largely supported by women. One year later, at the federal level, the sale of alcohol was no longer allowed. Of course we all know the woes that came from this, resentment toward the government, increased crime rates, and larger problem with alcohol than ever existed before. By the early 1930′s it was enough and on December 5th, 1933 the 21st amendment repealed the 18th and eliminated federal control of the sale of alcohol, still allowing both state and local authorities the right to limit it.
Interestingly enough, the town I grew up in is still tightly regulated on such issues. Throughout my youth there it was completely a dry county with no sales at all. Though a quick drive north could get you packaged for retail sales, heading south you had to go over 100 miles to find a beverage available legally. Today it is considered moist, with some precincts allowing sales by the drink with certain restrictions in food establishments, but no package sales, Sunday sales, etc.
I personally think that if you are legal drinking age that you should be allowed to purchase whatever yo would like and if you are responsible you should be able to own a business that sells such libations as you see fit. And further, I think this should be at the federal level with no local option to limit such, period. I pretty sure that such is already given lip service here and there in various parts of the declaration, constitution, and laws – however, the wording of such is not all in one place. But fundamentally our rights as individuals are being restricted by our local governments. The right of the individual to choose in this case is a fundamental liberty that is being taking away with out seemingly good reason, since in almost every case where it is restricted I can within a some amount of a drive have my choice of libations.
Anyway enough of that – granted it was two days ago, but I don’t think it is too late to raise your glass in celebration of the repeal – that is unless you live where Sunday sales are prohibited.
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Cormacjosh
