The 18th Amendment, enacted in 1919, prohibited the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages in the United States, ushering in the Prohibition era. Intended to reduce crime and corruption, improve health, and enhance society, the Amendment instead led to widespread disregard for the law and the rise of organized crime. Speakeasies flourished as underground bars became popular, and law enforcement struggled to control illegal alcohol distribution. The societal backlash against Prohibition, coupled with its ineffectiveness in curbing alcohol consumption, ultimately culminated in its repeal with the 21st Amendment in 1933, highlighting the complexities of legislating morality.