The passage of the 18th Amendment to the Constitution legalizing the prohibition had been a long time in the making when it was passed into law on January 16, 1919. In order for this to be passed into law, the temperance movement had to have the crucial support of three major groups. These groups were; the protestants, women, and industry leaders. The Protestant temperance movement was led by Billy Sunday, Carry Nation, and William "Pussyfoot- Johnson. These important leaders were all members of the Anti-Saloon league. The Anti-Saloon League was formed the most successful temperance organization. They were able to gather much needed funds, and most importantly, bind the political aspects of temperance, and the moral and religious aspects of temperance. Starting in the early 20th century the Anti-Saloon League gathered power, and had the support of many influential politicians.
Instead of decreasing crime and corruption in the country, Prohibition increased crime and corruption immensely. In large and small cities throughout the country there were problems, however, these problems were more prevalent in Chicago than anywhere else. Organized crime in Chicago was started by Big Jim Colosimo. Colosimo started as a modest owner of a brothel, and he later owned more than ten brothels. Colosimo very successfully cashed in on his power and fortune and became the leader of organized crime in Chicago by 1917. When the 18th amendment was passed, Colosimo saw a golden opportunity to increase his fortune and power. Colosimo's second in command was his nephew Johnny Torrio. Torrio was a very smart and savvy businessman. Soon he controlled almost all business decisions of Jim Colosimo. However, Colosimo and Torrio had a clash regarding Colosimo's treatment of his ex-wife, and their relationship was rocky from then on. A couple of months later, Colosimo was murdered and Torrio was questioned but not charged with any crimes.
