The Rise and Fall of Prohibition by Charles Hanson Towne is a thorough exploration of a pivotal moment in American history. Towne delves into the motivations behind the passing of the 18th Amendment, which prohibited the sale and consumption of alcohol in the United States, and the subsequent rise of bootlegging and organized crime.

The book provides a detailed account of how prohibition affected American society, from the rise of speakeasies and the glamorization of gangsters to the eventual repeal of the amendment in 1933. Towne skillfully weaves together historical facts, anecdotes, and quotes from key figures of the time to create a comprehensive and engaging narrative.

Overall, The Rise and Fall of Prohibition offers readers a fascinating look at a tumultuous period in American history, shedding light on the complexities of government regulation and societal attitudes towards alcohol. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of prohibition and its lasting impact on American culture.

Book Description:
Subtitle: "The Human Side of What the Eighteenth Amendment and the Volstead Act Have Done to the United States" From Chapter 1: "The strange phenomenon of Prohibition, after an appearance amongst us of over three years, is still non-understandable to the majority of a great, and so-called free, people. It is one of the most astonishing manifestations the world has ever witnessed. It came upon us like a phantom, swiftly; like a thief in the night, taking us by surprise. Yet the Prohibitionists will tell you that no one should be amazed, since for years—for almost a century—quiet forces have been at work to bring about this very thing." - Summary by Charles Hanson Towne