New Mexico History End of Course (EOC) Practice Exam

The 18th Amendment, which established Prohibition in the United States, had a profound impact on society, notably leading to the rise of organized crime and bootlegging. With the legal production, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages banned, a significant black market emerged. Criminal organizations took advantage of the demand for alcohol that could no longer be legally supplied. They organized smuggling operations, known as bootlegging, and established illicit establishments, commonly referred to as speakeasies, where alcohol was sold illegally.

This surge of organized crime was not merely a byproduct; it became one of the defining features of the Prohibition era, as various gangs competed for control of the lucrative illegal alcohol trade. The law's attempt to curb alcohol consumption inadvertently fueled widespread violence and lawlessness, demonstrating a significant disconnect between government policy and social behavior. This illustrates how regulatory measures can sometimes lead to unintended and counterproductive consequences in society.