18th Amendment (1919) National prohibition of alcohol
The Eighteenth Amendment is unique because it shows what happens when the Constitution is used to expand federal power too far into private life.
It banned the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcohol nationwide.
This amendment exists as a historical lesson about overreach and unintended consequences.
Plain-English summary of the 18th Amendment
The Eighteenth Amendment made alcohol illegal across the entire United States.
It gave the federal government broad enforcement powers over personal behavior.
This marked one of the largest expansions of federal authority in American history.
What the 18th Amendment actually says (short excerpt)
“The manufacture, sale, or transportation of intoxicating liquors… is hereby prohibited.”
In plain English: alcohol was banned nationwide.
How the 18th Amendment expanded government power
What the government was allowed to do
Criminalize alcohol nationwide.
Enforce morality through federal law.
What citizens lost
Personal choice.
Local control over alcohol laws.
Which branch was most affected
Congress and federal law enforcement.
Everyday examples
Federal agents raided businesses and homes to enforce alcohol laws.
Historical story – prohibition and its failure
Instead of ending drinking, Prohibition created black markets, organized crime, and widespread disrespect for the law.
By the early 1930s, it was clear the policy had failed.
Historical quote showing the lesson learned
President Herbert Hoover called Prohibition:
“An experiment noble in motive but disastrous in effect.”
This reflected the realization that government power has limits.
How the 18th Amendment shows up on the USCIS civics test
USCIS example question
What amendment banned alcohol?
Correct short answer
The Eighteenth Amendment.
Everyday life examples
Speakeasies and bootlegging flourished during Prohibition.
Law enforcement resources were overwhelmed.
Quick recap – what to remember about the 18th Amendment
It expanded federal power.
It restricted personal freedom.
It failed and was repealed.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 18th Amendment
Is it still in effect?
No. It was repealed.
Why is it important to study?
It shows the dangers of overreach.
What repealed it?
The Twenty-First Amendment.