Wyoming is a dry state due to a combination of factors, including the passing of legislation and the influence of the temperance movement during the early 20th century. The decision to implement statewide prohibition was ultimately made by the people of Wyoming through a vote in the fall of 1918.
One significant factor that led to the prohibition movement in Wyoming was the influence of the temperance movement. This movement aimed to reduce or eliminate the consumption of alcohol, viewing it as a cause of societal problems such as crime, poverty, and domestic violence. The temperance movement gained momentum across the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with many individuals and organizations advocating for the prohibition of alcohol.
In Wyoming, the temperance movement gained considerable support, particularly among women's groups and religious organizations. These groups argued that alcohol was detrimental to families and society as a whole, and they worked tirelessly to promote the idea of prohibition. Their efforts culminated in the passage of the prohibition bill in February 1919.
Another factor that contributed to Wyoming becoming a dry state was the political climate at the time. The early 1900s saw a wave of progressive reforms sweeping across the country, and prohibition was seen as a progressive measure aimed at improving society. Many politicians and lawmakers supported prohibition as a means to address social issues and promote public health and morality.
Furthermore, the passing of the 18th Amendment to the United States Constitution, which prohibited the manufacture, transportation, and sale of alcohol nationwide, also played a role in Wyoming's decision to become a dry state. The 18th Amendment was ratified in January 1919 and was set to take effect one year later. However, Wyoming took the initiative to implement prohibition six months earlier, on June 30, 1919.
It is important to note that the implementation of statewide prohibition in Wyoming was not without opposition. There were individuals and groups who believed that the government should not dictate personal choices and that prohibition would lead to the rise of illegal activities such as bootlegging and organized crime. However, the proponents of prohibition argued that the benefits of a dry state, such as reduced crime rates and improved public health, outweighed these concerns.
Wyoming became a dry state primarily due to the influence of the temperance movement, the progressive political climate, and the impending nationwide prohibition imposed by the 18th Amendment. The support of women's groups, religious organizations, and politicians, coupled with the belief that prohibition would lead to a better society, ultimately led to the passage of legislation and the implementation of statewide prohibition in Wyoming.