Repeal Day

It’s Repeal Day! Today is the anniversary of the day that the United States repealed the 18th Amendment, restoring the right to purchase and consume alcohol.

The 18th Amendment, which was ratified on January 16, 1919, prohibited the manufacture, sale, and transportation of liquor throughout the United States. Prohibition led to widespread disrespect for the law. New York City alone had about 30,000 speakeasies by 1927! Eventually, many influential and respected citizens including John D. Rockefeller Jr. came forward and organized a counter movement. The 21st Amendment ending Prohibition was ratified on December 5, 1933.

Repeal Day is a celebration of the balance of power in the United States and of the individual freedom that allows each American citizen to choose whether or not to drink alcohol. Learn more about the history of this holiday.