The Making of Prohibition Some form of limitation on spirits has been part of this continent's history since the first European settlers arrived. Originally, these limitations were imposed to prevent drunkenness among the colonists. An interesting theme that occurred throughout the temperance movement is the notion that despair promotes drinking. This correlation certainly had credence with the colonists, for whom survival was a constant issue.
By the time Captain Sedgewick established the first brewery in Massachusetts in 1637, spirits provided governments revenue-enhancement opportunities. Legislators enacted a rule that "No person shall remain in any inn or victualing house, 'longer than necessary, upon payne of 20 Schillings for every offense'" (1). Brewers and distillers were also taxed to gain revenue for the colonies. In 1644, New York Colony approved an excise tax on beer, wine, and brandy. In 1645, Massachusetts Colony restricted drinkers by declaring, "More than half a pint at one time is excess, and tippling, 'above ye space of half an hour'" (1) was forbidden.
In 1733, the Georgia colony had the dubious distinction of being the first colony to establish a prohibition edict. Despite General James Ogelthorpe's efforts to enforce a dry colony, he was thwarted by bootleggers from the Carolinas. The edict was rescinded in 1742.My how things have changed. All things in context ol' boy, all things in context.