The Temperance Movement (1820s-1920s)

The Temperance Movement began as a social reform effort to address alcohol-related problems and evolved into a powerful political force that achieved national prohibition through the 18th Amendment. It represents one of America's largest and longest-lasting reform movements.

Key Organizations

Woman's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU)

  • Founded 1874
  • Led by Frances Willard
  • Largest women's organization of its time
  • Combined temperance with women's rights

Anti-Saloon League

  • Founded 1893
  • Single-issue political pressure group
  • Led successful push for Prohibition
  • Pioneer of modern lobbying techniques

Key Figures

Frances Willard

WCTU leader who expanded movement's scope

"Temperance is moderation in the things that are good and total abstinence from the things that are foul."

Carry Nation

Famous for direct action "hatchetations"

Neal Dow

"Father of Prohibition," Maine law author

Evolution of the Movement

1820s-1840s

Moral suasion phase, religious revival influence

1850s-1870s

Legal prohibition phase, state laws

1880s-1910s

Political pressure phase, national campaign

1919

18th Amendment ratified

Strategies and Tactics

Education and Persuasion

  • Temperance literature
  • Public lectures
  • Pledge signing campaigns
  • School programs

Political Action

  • Local option campaigns
  • State prohibition laws
  • Pressure on politicians
  • Constitutional amendment push

Arguments and Rhetoric

Social Arguments

  • Family protection
  • Public health
  • Crime reduction
  • Worker productivity

Moral Arguments

  • Religious duty
  • Personal virtue
  • Social purity

Legacy and Impact

Direct Results

  • 18th Amendment (1919)
  • National Prohibition (1920-1933)
  • Women's political activism
  • Modern pressure group tactics

Long-term Influence

  • Social reform movements
  • Single-issue politics
  • Women's rights movement
  • Public health campaigns

Historical Significance

The Temperance Movement demonstrated the power of organized social movements to achieve constitutional change. While Prohibition was ultimately repealed, the movement's organizational techniques, its role in advancing women's political participation, and its influence on American attitudes toward alcohol and other social issues continue to shape American society and politics.