The central issue of the U.S. Prohibition era (1920-1933) was the legal ban on the production, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages. The 18th Amendment, along with the Volstead Act, prohibited alcohol in an attempt to curb social problems associated with drinking, such as crime and poverty. However, Prohibition led to unintended consequences, including the rise of organized crime, illegal speakeasies, and widespread disregard for the law. The experiment ultimately proved unpopular and difficult to enforce, resulting in growing calls for repeal. The 21st Amendment repealing Prohibition was ratified in 1933, restoring the legality of alcohol.