Andrew Volstead

American politician and author of the Volstead Act

Andrew Volstead

Andrew Volstead

Andrew John Volstead (October 31, 1860 – January 20, 1947) was an American politician and a member of the United States House of Representatives from Minnesota. He is best known for his role in the passage of the National Prohibition Act, commonly known as the Volstead Act, which defined the legal parameters of Prohibition in the United States.

Early Life and Education

Andrew Volstead was born in Kenyon, Minnesota, to Norwegian immigrant parents. He attended local schools and later graduated from St. Olaf College in 1881. Volstead studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1883, beginning his practice in Granit Falls, Minnesota.

Political Career

Volstead served as the mayor of Granite Falls from 1900 to 1902. He was elected to the United States House of Representatives as a member of the Republican Party in 1902 and served from 1903 to 1923. During his tenure, he was a member of several committees and was particularly influential in agricultural and legal matters.

The Volstead Act

The Volstead Act, officially the National Prohibition Act, was enacted in 1919 to provide for the enforcement of the Eighteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which established the prohibition of alcoholic beverages. Volstead, as chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, played a crucial role in drafting and promoting the legislation. The Act defined "intoxicating liquors" and set the legal framework for prohibition enforcement.

Later Life and Legacy

After losing his congressional seat in 1922, Volstead returned to his law practice in Granite Falls. He continued to be active in local politics and community affairs until his death in 1947. Volstead's legacy is closely tied to the Prohibition era, and his name remains synonymous with the national movement to ban alcohol.

Related pages

• Prohibition in the United States
• Eighteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution
• Republican Party (United States)