What did the 18th Amendment later lead to in U.S. history?

The 18th Amendment, ratified in 1919, established the prohibition of alcoholic beverages in the United States. This significant change in law marked the beginning of a nationwide effort to eliminate alcohol consumption. However, the consequences of this amendment were far-reaching and not as the proponents had hoped.

One major outcome was the eventual repeal of the amendment through the 21st Amendment in 1933, as it became apparent that prohibition had led to more social issues than it resolved. The ban on alcohol did not eradicate drinking but instead drove it underground, resulting in the rise of speakeasies and illicit distilleries. This atmosphere of illegal activity and decreased respect for the law contributed to the growing perception that prohibition was a failure, leading to its repeal.

In summary, the 18th Amendment's attempt at enforcing prohibition ultimately culminated in its own repeal, marking a significant shift in American social policies towards alcohol consumption and regulation.