The eighteenth amendment was ratified in 1917. It prohibited any and all making, manufacturing, and transporting of alcohol of any kind. Officials in the higher ranks believed that if some people could not have alcohol, the crime rates would lower and there would be less social problems. This law, though, did not impact much because it was later repealed. The amendment fell through because it was not wise. More about why and how this amendment was repealed see the page for the 21st amendment.