A Level History - America - Practice Exam

What was a key factor in the rise of organized crime during the 1920s?

1. Prohibition of alcohol

2. Television broadcasting

3. Implementation of welfare programs

4. Rise of social media

The correct answer is: Prohibition of alcohol

The rise of organized crime during the 1920s can largely be attributed to the Prohibition of alcohol, which was enacted through the 18th Amendment in 1920. This era made the production, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages illegal, creating a significant underground market. Organized crime syndicates capitalized on this demand by supplying illegal alcohol, leading to the establishment of bootlegging operations and speakeasies. These criminal organizations became extremely profitable, allowing them to expand their influence and operations in various cities across the United States. Figures such as Al Capone emerged as notorious leaders of these groups, using violence and corruption to maintain control over their enterprises. The social circumstances of the time, including a lack of effective enforcement of Prohibition laws, further enabled organized crime to thrive. In contrast, the options related to television broadcasting, welfare programs, and social media do not have a connection to the rise of organized crime in this period. Television did not become widespread until the late 1940s and 1950s, welfare programs were not significantly established until the New Deal in the 1930s, and social media as we know it today did not exist during the 1920s. Therefore, the prohibition of alcohol is the