John A. Volstead

John A. Volstead was an American politician who served as a U.S. Representative and Senator from Minnesota. He is best known for authoring the 18th Amendment, which established Prohibition—the nationwide ban on alcohol—enacted in 1919. As head of the Volstead Act, he created the legal framework to enforce Prohibition. His work significantly impacted American society, leading to a rise in illegal alcohol trade and organized crime. Despite his association with alcohol regulation, Volstead was also involved in various legislative efforts during his career and played a prominent role in early 20th-century American politics.