History of Prohibition of Alcohol

18th Amendment

Jan 16, 1919

Eighteenth Amendment to the United States ConstitutionProhibited the consumption of alcoholic beverages. However the Amendment officially started on January 17, 1920.

Year Before the 18th Amendment

Period: Jan 16, 1919 to Jan 16, 1920

Volstead Act

Oct 28, 1919

The Volstead Act enforced the 18th Amendment which prohibited alcohol consumption. However, was repealed along with the 18th Amendment after the 21st Amendment was passed.

Prohibition of Alcohol

Period: Jan 16, 1920 to Dec 5, 1933

21st Amendment

Dec 5, 1933

Twenty-first Amendment to the United States ConstitutionRepealed the 18th Amendment or the Prohibition of alcohol. Repealing the 18th Amendment meant almost everybody could consume alcohol. The only people not allowed were people under 21.