Ep 2. Demon Rum

In season 2, episode 2 of American Experience, viewers are taken back to the early 20th century when the Prohibition era was in full swing. Titled Demon Rum, the episode delves deep into the history of the temperance movement that spearheaded the nationwide ban on alcohol, the backlash that ensued, and the ultimate failure of the Prohibition.

The episode begins by highlighting the growing concerns of a segment of society that believed alcohol was the root of all evil in society. This led to the formation of the temperance movement, which slowly gained momentum and eventually led to the 18th Amendment of the United States Constitution, banning the production, transportation, and sale of alcohol in the country.

The producers of Demon Rum have done a commendable job of presenting the various perspectives and motivations that led to the Prohibition. It is shown how the temperance movement consisted of groups of women, religious leaders, and various other social reformers who believed that the ban on alcohol would lead to a more virtuous and prospering society. They presented alcohol as a social evil that needed to be eradicated, and they had graphic stories and images to support their claims.

However, there was also a significant opposition to the Prohibition, and the episode shows how this played out in the political arena. Various interest groups, including the beverage industry, saw an opportunity to thrive during this period, leading to a boom in bootlegging and organized crime. The episode portrays how illegal alcohol production and distribution became a massive industry across the United States, despite the efforts of law enforcement.

Demon Rum provides a historical perspective on the origins and motivations of various powerful figures who are associated with the Prohibition era. This includes Carry Nation and the Women's Christian Temperance Union, the Anti-Saloon League, and eventually bootlegging kingpin, Al Capone.

The episode also highlights how the political scenario de-escalated, and the Prohibition was finally repealed. This had broader implications for the American political scene as it showed how a movement that started with good intentions could run into problems due to challenges like corruption and ineffective implementation.

Overall, season 2, episode 2 of American Experience provides an engaging and informative picture of the rise, fall, and implications of the Prohibition period in the United States. The show is heavily researched and provides a well-rounded perspective, making this a must-watch for history buffs, policymakers, and anyone else interested in the evolution of American society.