Prohibition
1920–1933
The dark age of American cocktails. Constitutional ban on alcohol drove drinking underground, degraded cocktail quality, and scattered American bartenders across the globe.
Key Events
- 1920: 18th Amendment takes effect (Volstead Act)
- 1920s: Speakeasies proliferate across American cities
- 1920s: American bartenders emigrate to Cuba, London, Paris
- 1920: Harry Craddock arrives at the Savoy Hotel, London
- 1930: The Savoy Cocktail Book published
- 1933: 21st Amendment repeals Prohibition
Key Figures
Harry Craddock (Savoy Hotel), Constantino Ribalaigua (La Floridita, Havana), Eddie Woelke (Hotel Nacional, Havana)
Cultural Context
Prohibition paradoxically globalized cocktail culture. As talent fled America, they brought cocktail techniques to Havana, London, and Paris. Poor-quality bootleg spirits led to cocktails designed to mask harsh flavors.
