Residue from wine has been found in ancient pottery jars dating back to 6000 BC, and fermenting beer has been around since about 10000 BC. Alcoholic drinks are an integral part of many cultures, but these same beverages have long been a topic of debate.
On this day, January 2nd, in 1934, the first state liquor stores opened in Pennsylvania following the 21st Amendment of the Constitution, which allowed states to regulate the sale of alcohol.
In 1919, supporters of the temperance movement managed to pass the 18th Amendment, prohibiting the sale of alcohol. Yet, the movement resulted in actually increasing the drinking and crime rates that it aimed to suppress.