Economic factors were very important to the timing of prohibition repeal.

The Wall Street Crash of 1929 sent America into a economic depression and caused mass unemployment. One of the arguments for prohibition was that it would make America a more efficient work force. This was obviously no longer valid as the economy was in ruins.

Also to solve the unemployment problem the government could use extra tax from legalising alcohol to provide jobs schemes instead of the profits going to gangsters. Also the government could save money as it would have to spend money enforcing the law.

So the economic factors led to prohibition because they added pressure as there was the increased need for tax revenue.

How important do you think economic factors were to the repeal of prohibition?