The Raines Law of 1896
Prompt 2: The Raines Law of 1896 was intended to combat alcoholism and drunkenness, and many now see it as a foreshadowing of the National Prohibition Act of 1919, which enforced the nationwide prohibition of the production, sale, and transport of “intoxicating liquors.” Many now also see the Raines Law as a product of one of America’s many social crusades. During the Progressive Era, these social crusades were often aimed at eliminating alcoholism, prostitution, or child labor; however, in the twenty-first century, Americans have taken up other causes and now combat new vices and social ills.
In an essay, explain how the Raines Law functioned as part of a social crusade against alcoholism and how this social crusade compares to modern-day social crusades. Your essay should do the following:
1)
demonstrate an understanding of the Raines Law and the provided article,
2) adequately define and explain the term “social crusade,” and
3) compare and contrast the Progressive Era social crusade against alcoholism and drunkenness with at least one current American social crusade.
Sample Solution
On March 23, 1896, a law introduced by New York State Senator John Raines was passed by the state legislature, making the sale of liquor illegal on Sundays, except at hotels. Among other provisions, the Raines law increased the cost of liquor licenses, raised the drinking age from sixteen to eighteen, and prohibited the sale of alcoholic beverages on Sundays except in hotels, as well as in lodging houses with at least 10 rooms that served drinks with complimentary meals. It was nominally a liquor tax, but its intention was to curb the consumption of alcohol by imposing stricter regulations.
