National Repeal Day, observed on December 5th each year, commemorates the repeal of Prohibition in the United States. This day marks the end of a 13-year nationwide ban on the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages, which was enforced through the Eighteenth Amendment. The repeal was enacted by the Twenty-first Amendment, allowing Americans to enjoy their right to consume alcohol once more.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: December 5th
- Tagged as: National Repeal Day
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalRepealDay
- When was it founded?: December 5, 1933
- Who founded it?: The repeal was a result of collective efforts by various advocacy groups, including the Women’s Organization for National Prohibition Reform, and was signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
History of National Repeal Day
The history of National Repeal Day is rooted in the tumultuous era of Prohibition that lasted from January 16, 1920, until December 5, 1933. The Eighteenth Amendment aimed to curb alcohol consumption but instead led to a rise in organized crime and illegal speakeasies. As public sentiment shifted against Prohibition due to its negative consequences, advocacy for repeal gained momentum, culminating in the passage of the Twenty-first Amendment.
Timeline
- 1919: Eighteenth Amendment passed, initiating Prohibition.
- 1920: Prohibition officially begins.
- 1933: Franklin D. Roosevelt signs the Cullen-Harrison Act allowing low-alcohol beer and wine.
- December 5, 1933: The Twenty-first Amendment is ratified, ending Prohibition.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | December | 5 | Thursday |
| 2025 | December | 5 | Friday |
| 2026 | December | 5 | Saturday |
| 2027 | December | 5 | Sunday |
| 2028 | December | 5 | Tuesday |
Observed
National Repeal Day is celebrated across the United States with various events and gatherings. Bars and restaurants often host themed parties reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties, featuring vintage cocktails and live music.
Fun Facts About National Repeal Day
- It is the only national holiday explicitly mentioned in the U.S. Constitution.
- The day celebrates not just the end of Prohibition but also a cultural revival associated with drinking and socializing.
- Many former speakeasies have transformed into popular bars that embrace their historical significance.
Quiz
- What year did Prohibition begin?
- Which amendment repealed Prohibition?
- Who was president when Prohibition was repealed?
Answers:
- 1920
- Twenty-first Amendment
- Franklin D. Roosevelt
FAQs
What is National Repeal Day?
National Repeal Day celebrates the repeal of Prohibition in the United States on December 5th, allowing legal alcohol consumption again.
Why is it important?
It symbolizes a significant shift in American culture and law regarding alcohol consumption and reflects broader societal changes regarding personal freedoms.
Importance of National Repeal Day
National Repeal Day serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding legislation aimed at regulating personal behavior. It highlights how public sentiment can shift dramatically over time and underscores the importance of individual freedoms in a democratic society.
Related Topics
- History of Prohibition
- The Roaring Twenties
- Alcohol Regulation in America
- The Role of Women in Repeal Movements