A note on Prohibition

Theologian Robert F. Lay states that "Temperance urges abstinence from alcohol, or drinking in moderation, as a personal choice. Prohibition aims to remove the temptation by outlawing drink altogether." (Temperance and Prohibition)

Temperance and Prohibition are often fused together.  Indeed it could be said that Prohibition comes from Temperance.  Historical evidence points to this happening within the Methodist church itself as the founder of Methodism (John Wesley) leans towards Temperance. By the time the Prohibition movement is at its zenith in Saskatchewan it is the Methodist church members that are leading the way. (Erhard Pinno 13)  At the same time, some Catholic leaders opposed Prohibition for the simple reason that they believed it was another attempt to discriminate against Catholicism. (Pinno 21)   Erhard Pinno probably sums up the Saskatchewan Prohibition/Temperance subject best when he declares: "There were those of every religious denomination who were opposed to prohibiting the use of alcohol, but prior to 1917 the majority clearly sided with prohibition." (Pinno 21)  At this juncture it is clear that whatever Temperance ideal had not already joined with Prohibition, it was clearly in the minority.

In regards to the Temperance Colonization Society of Toronto of the 1880's, it seems like there is strong evidence that within the colony there was going to be a society free from alcohol.  One could probably look at the Temperance colony as a miniature Prohibition colony.  As is indicated in blog posts it was this lack of political power that contributed to the downfall of the 'pure Saskatoon' society but also gave birth to a foundation for the future Prohibition era within the province.


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