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Today in History: Congress overrides veto, passes Volstead Act

By Drooid · Oct 28, 2026, 10:34 UTC · How we work

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Summary

On October 28, 1919, the 66th Congress overrode President Woodrow Wilson’s veto to enact the National Prohibition Act, known as the Volstead Act. Drafted by the Anti-Saloon League and named for Rep. Andrew Volstead, the law gave force to the 18th Amendment, launching nationwide prohibition of alcoholic beverages.

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Story summary

On October 28, 1919, the 66th Congress overrode President Woodrow Wilson’s veto to enact the National Prohibition Act, known as the Volstead Act. Drafted by the Anti-Saloon League and named for Rep. Andrew Volstead, the law gave force to the 18th Amendment, launching nationwide prohibition of alcoholic beverages.