Final answer:
The debate over prohibition in America was a prolonged endeavor that started in the 19th century with the temperance movement and culminated in the enactment of the Eighteenth Amendment in January 1919. Despite the law, enforcement was difficult, and public opposition led to the repeal of prohibition by the Twenty First Amendment in 1933.
Step-by-step explanation:
The debate over prohibition in America was a long and complex issue that evolved over many decades. Starting as early in the 19th century, the temperance movement began advocating for the reduction and eventual elimination of alcohol consumption. Supporters of prohibition, including influential organizations like the Anti-Saloon League, were active in politics, often determining the success of political candidates with their endorsements. By the 1860s, their efforts resulted in several towns and counties becoming "dry," and by the early 20th century, a few states had implemented state-wide bans on alcohol. The greatest legislative victory of this era was Maine's total ban on alcohol from 1851-1856.
By 1905, three states had outlawed alcohol, which grew to nine states by 1912 and 26 states by 1916. The movement culminated in the enactment of the Eighteenth Amendment in January 1919, following its approval by Congress in December 1917. However, the prohibition of alcohol was difficult to enforce and faced public opposition, leading to its eventual repeal by the Twenty First Amendment in 1933.
Throughout this period, the temperance movement's efforts intertwined with concerns over grain preservation during World War I, the moralistic tone of the era, and anti-German sentiment. The prohibition era also saw an increase in organized crime and posed enforcement challenges, highlighting the significant divide between law and public opinion on the use of alcohol.