“In almost every respect imaginable, Prohibition was a failure.”
So writes Daniel Okrent in his book, “Last Call: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition.”
Published by Scribner and carrying a suggested retail price of $35, “Last Call” presents America’s most comprehensive attempt to control social behavior, early in the 20th century, in a very engaging style.
(It had better be engaging, considering the book runs 480 pages.)
While the intent of Prohibition might be considered noble, it ended up producing more organized crime, political and law enforcement corruption and, perhaps most damaging of all, widespread disrespect for law in a system that requires adherence to reasonable laws in order to function.
If you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating period of American history, the repercussions of which are still being felt to some degree today, “Last Call” should be at the top of your summertime reading list.
