The article discusses the historical context of prohibition in the United States, highlighting Andrew John Volstead’s role in the implementation of the Volstead Act of 1919. Volstead served as a Republican member of the House of Representatives for Minnesota and was instrumental in shaping the legislation that initiated a nationwide ban on alcohol. This law has left a significant mark on American history, with subsequent gang wars and crime during the prohibition era contributing to a turbulent period in U.S. history.

The piece further analyzes the eventual repeal of prohibition and its significance in the context of American democracy. The author draws parallels between past crises, like the Civil War and the economic panic of 1873, suggesting that these did not lead to the collapse of the democratic system. Instead, the successful navigation through these hardships demonstrates the resilience of American democracy and its ability to adapt to challenges over time.

Lastly, the article serves as a reminder against contemporary pessimism regarding American society, which some pundits claim is on the verge of disintegration. The author posits that just as the nation recovered from past struggles, it will continue to endure and evolve, countering the narratives that predict an imminent decline of the U.S. as a global power.