Absinthe, also known as the Green Fairy, has a long and intriguing history. It originated in Switzerland in the late 18th century and quickly gained popularity in France. However, it was eventually banned in the United States in 1912 due to concerns about its alleged hallucinogenic properties and potential dangers.
One of the main reasons why green absinthe became illegal in the USA was the belief that it contained a chemical compound called thujone, which was thought to be a powerful hallucinogen. Thujone is a naturally occurring substance found in wormwood, one of the key ingredients in absinthe. It was believed that consuming absinthe in large quantities could lead to hallucinations, psychotic episodes, and even violent behavior. These claims were often sensationalized by the media, leading to widespread fear and moral panic.
Another factor that contributed to the prohibition of absinthe was the temperance movement and the eventual implementation of Prohibition in the United States. The temperance movement aimed to limit or eradicate the consumption of alcohol, as it was seen as a cause of social problems and moral decay. Absinthe, with its reputation for being a potent and mysterious drink, became an easy target for prohibitionists.
The banning of absinthe in the US was further fueled by political and economic factors. The temperance movement had gained significant political influence by the early 20th century, and the prohibition of absinthe was seen as a way to appease the growing calls for alcohol control. Additionally, the powerful lobbying efforts of the brewing and distilling industries, which saw absinthe as a threat to their own profits, played a role in the decision to ban the drink.
Interestingly, even after the 21st Amendment was passed in 1933, which repealed the nationwide Prohibition, absinthe remained banned in the US. This was due to the lingering concerns about its safety and alleged hallucinogenic properties. It wasn't until 2007 that the ban on absinthe was lifted, although certain regulations and restrictions still apply.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in absinthe, and it has regained its status as a popular and sought-after spirit. Many modern studies have debunked the myth of absinthe's hallucinogenic effects, attributing them to the high alcohol content rather than the presence of thujone. Today, absinthe is enjoyed by connoisseurs and cocktail enthusiasts alike, and its once-illegal status adds to its allure and mystique.
The prohibition of green absinthe in the USA was primarily driven by concerns about its alleged hallucinogenic properties, the influence of the temperance movement, and the lobbying efforts of the brewing and distilling industries. However, these fears and misconceptions have since been dispelled, and absinthe has regained its rightful place in the world of spirits.