Final answer:
Women supported the temperance movement because alcohol abuse by men led to domestic violence and economic hardship within families. They played a substantial role in temperance societies and organizations like the WCTU, which eventually contributed to the establishment of prohibition under the 18th Amendment. The correct option is 3).
Step-by-step explanation:
Women often supported the temperance movement primarily for reasons related to family and social welfare. Notably, option 3 in the given choices, which states that drinking caused violence and economic hardship for families, reflects the core of their concern.
The American Temperance Society, established in 1826, rapidly grew with women forming a significant portion of its membership. They were often viewed as the moral voice of America and were influenced by the 'Cult of Domesticity' and the societal expectations that followed.
Moreover, women's participation in the temperance movement was much more socially acceptable at the time than other movements like abolition or women’s rights.
Aside from the moral implications, heavy consumption and abuse of alcohol by men often resulted in squandering of household finances, negligence of familial responsibilities, and instances of domestic violence. Thus, organizations like the Women's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) and activists like Carrie A.
Nation became prominent, with the movement eventually leading to influential changes in laws, culminating in the enactment of the 18th Amendment establishing prohibition. Option 3) is the correct one.