A Level History - America - Practice Exam

Which of the following was a challenge for organized crime in rural areas during the 1920s?

1. Ease of smuggling

2. Low population density

3. High demand for alcohol

4. Strong local law enforcement

The correct answer is: Low population density

The challenge of low population density in rural areas during the 1920s is particularly relevant to organized crime when considering the dynamics of illegal activities such as bootlegging. In rural locales, a sparse population meant fewer potential customers for illicit alcohol, which diminished the profitability of smuggling operations. Organized crime thrived in urban centers because dense populations provided a larger market and better opportunities for anonymity, making it easier to conduct and conceal unlawful activities. Moreover, the geographical spread of rural areas complicates the logistics of distribution and control for organized criminals, as a lower concentration of people makes it more difficult to establish the networks necessary for successful operations. Consequently, while rural territories might have geographical advantages for smuggling routes given their proximity to production areas (like farms), the challenge of reaching and serving a dispersed customer base made organized crime less viable compared to urban counterparts. The issue of low population density thus played a significant role in hindering organized crime in those regions during the Prohibition era.