What was the goal of the Temperance Movement in the late 1800s and early 1900s?

The goal of the Temperance Movement in the late 1800s and early 1900s was primarily to reduce or eliminate the consumption of alcoholic beverages. This movement was driven by various social, moral, and health concerns about the effects of alcohol on individuals and society as a whole.

1. Social Issues: Activists believed that alcohol led to family violence, poverty, and social decay. Many women, who were often victims of domestic abuse related to alcohol consumption, were prominent in the movement, seeking to protect their families and communities.

2. Health Concerns: There was growing awareness of the negative effects of alcohol on health. Reformers argued that alcohol consumption could lead to various diseases and moral decay, advocating for a healthier, more productive society.

3. Moral Reformation: Many temperance advocates viewed alcohol as a moral failing and sought to promote moral behavior through abstinence. This belief was often rooted in religious values that condemned drunkenness as a sin.

4. Legislative Action: The movement culminated in significant political action, eventually leading to Prohibition in the 1920s with the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. This amendment prohibited the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcohol.

The Temperance Movement was thus not just about reducing alcohol intake but was part of a broader push for social reform during a time of significant change in American society.