The Blaine Act: Orchestrating the Repeal of Prohibition

Formally recognized as the Joint Resolution Proposing the Twenty-First Amendment to the United States Constitution, the legislative measure popularly known as the "Blaine Act" marked a pivotal moment in American history. This crucial joint resolution was officially adopted by the United States Congress on February 20, 1933, setting in motion the process to dismantle the 18th Amendment, which had controversially established nationwide Prohibition in the United States.

The Blaine Act derives its common name from its primary sponsor, Senator John J. Blaine of Wisconsin. As a prominent progressive politician and former Governor, Blaine played a critical role in drafting and championing this resolution, reflecting the widespread public and political desire to end the "Great Experiment" of Prohibition.

The Era of Prohibition and the Call for Repeal

The 18th Amendment, ratified in 1919 and enforced by the Volstead Act, prohibited the manufacture, sale, or transportation of "intoxicating liquors" throughout the country. While initially intended to address social ills, Prohibition inadvertently led to a significant rise in organized crime, diminished government tax revenues, and widespread disrespect for the law as illicit alcohol consumption flourished. By the early 1930s, public opinion had largely turned against Prohibition, creating strong political momentum for its repeal.

The Legislative Journey: From Congress to Ratification

As a joint resolution, the Blaine Act required a two-thirds majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate to be formally proposed. Upon its adoption by Congress on February 20, 1933, the proposed Twenty-First Amendment was then sent to the individual states for ratification. Unlike ordinary legislation, constitutional amendments bypass presidential approval and go directly to the states.

The ratification process moved with remarkable speed, underscoring the national urgency to end Prohibition. A minimum of three-fourths of the states (then 36 out of 48) were required to ratify the amendment for it to become part of the Constitution. This critical threshold was reached on December 5, 1933, when Utah became the 36th state to ratify. This historic date officially marked the final repeal of the 18th Amendment and the definitive end of federal Prohibition.

The Unique Legacy of the 21st Amendment

The 21st Amendment holds a unique place in U.S. constitutional history as the only amendment ever ratified to explicitly repeal another. Beyond simply ending Prohibition, its second section grants states significant power to regulate the sale, transport, and consumption of alcoholic beverages within their borders. This provision allowed states to establish their own liquor laws, leading to a diverse patchwork of regulations across the nation that persists to this day.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Blaine Act and Prohibition Repeal

What was the primary objective of the Blaine Act?

The Blaine Act's primary objective was to propose the Twenty-First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which initiated the legal process for the repeal of the 18th Amendment and, consequently, the end of national Prohibition.

Who was Senator John J. Blaine?

John J. Blaine was a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin who was instrumental in drafting and securing the passage of the joint resolution known as the Blaine Act. He was a key figure in the repeal movement.

When was Prohibition officially repealed?

Prohibition was officially repealed on December 5, 1933, when the 21st Amendment achieved the necessary three-fourths state ratification, marking the end of the "noble experiment."

Why is the 21st Amendment considered unique among constitutional amendments?

The 21st Amendment is unique because it is the only amendment in United States history that was ratified specifically to repeal another constitutional amendment—the 18th Amendment. It also uniquely grants states broad powers to regulate alcohol.