Aired Friday May 7, 7:35am - 8:40amon PBS

Prohibition

A Nation of Hypocrites

By the close of the 1920s, many blame the law for the rise of criminal syndicates, promiscuity, and a sense that the entire government is corrupted. Once the Great Depression sets in, Americans begin to re-examine their priorities. By December of 1933, Prohibition's reign finally comes to an end under President Franklin D Roosevelt, and for the first time in 13 years, Americans can legally buy a drink.

Category
Documentary / History / Law / Miniseries
Original air date
2011-12-17
Cast and crew
  • Ken BurnsDirector
  • Lynn NovickDirector
  • Peter CoyoteNarrator