Bootleggers & Prohibition: The Secret Empire That Changed America 

During Prohibition (1920-1933), the U.S. government tried to ban alcohol, but instead, it created a booming underground empire run by bootleggers, speakeasies, and crime syndicates. These secret operations didn’t just keep the drinks flowing—they changed American history, fueled organized crime, and shaped drinking culture forever.

The Bootlegging Business: How It Worked

Production – Bootleggers made millions of gallons of moonshine (homemade whiskey) and bathtub gin (alcohol repurposed from industrial supplies).
Distribution – Alcohol was sold in speakeasies, restaurants, and nightclubs, often protected by corrupt officials.
Smuggling – Liquor was smuggled across state lines and by boat from the Caribbean.

Crime & Chaos: The Dark Side of Prohibition

Violence – Bootlegging fueled gang wars, including the infamous St. Valentine’s Day Massacre (1929) in Chicago.
Organized Crime – The Mafia rose to power, with figures like Al Capone controlling entire liquor empires.
Law Enforcement Struggles – The Prohibition Bureau couldn’t keep up, as bribery and corruption ran rampant.

The End of Prohibition: A Lasting Legacy

After 13 years of failed enforcement, Prohibition was repealed on December 5, 1933. But its impact remained:

✔ Speakeasy culture & cocktail mixology thrived.
✔ Organized crime expanded beyond alcohol.
✔ Law enforcement was reshaped to combat corruption.

Relive the Prohibition Era Today!

The bootlegger legacy lives on through classic cocktails, speakeasy-style bars, and vintage mixology. At Prohibition Bootleggers, we bring that era to life with expertly crafted cocktails, themed bars, and unforgettable experiences.

Want to add a touch of the Prohibition era to your event? Book your cocktail experience today!