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Today in History: Congress Passes Volstead Act Defying Wilson's Veto

10/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On October 28, 1919, the U.S. Congress passed the Volstead Act, overriding President Woodrow Wilson's veto. This legislation enforced the Eighteenth Amendment, establishing nationwide Prohibition by prohibiting the production, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages. The Act marked a significant step in the Prohibition era, which lasted until 1933.

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Story summary

On October 28, 1919, the U.S. Congress passed the Volstead Act, overriding President Woodrow Wilson's veto. This legislation enforced the Eighteenth Amendment, establishing nationwide Prohibition by prohibiting the production, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages. The Act marked a significant step in the Prohibition era, which lasted until 1933.