Moonshine is a term for illegally distilled liquor, usually made from corn mash. But how did it get its name and why was it so popular during the Prohibition era? In this blog, we will explore the history and culture of moonshine, and how it influenced American society.
The Origins of Moonshine
The word moonshine comes from the British slang for smuggled goods, which were often transported at night to avoid detection. The practice of making homemade liquor dates back to the colonial times, when farmers distilled their surplus corn into whiskey. This was a way to preserve their crops and make some extra money.
However, the government soon saw this as a source of revenue and imposed taxes on whiskey production. This led to the Whiskey Rebellion of 1794, when farmers in Pennsylvania resisted the tax collectors and fought against federal troops. The rebellion was eventually suppressed, but the spirit of moonshine lived on.
The Rise of Moonshine During the Prohibition Era
In 1920, the 18th Amendment to the Constitution banned the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcohol in the United States. This was known as the Prohibition era, and it lasted until 1933. During this time, many people turned to moonshine as a way to get their drink on.
Moonshine was popular for several reasons. First, it was cheap and easy to make, using simple ingredients and equipment. Second, it was potent and could get you drunk fast. Third, it was a form of rebellion against the government and the law. Moonshine became a symbol of freedom and independence for many Americans.
Moonshine also created a whole subculture of bootleggers, smugglers, and speakeasies. Bootleggers were people who made or transported moonshine across state lines. Smugglers were people who brought alcohol from other countries, such as Canada or Mexico. Speakeasies were secret bars or clubs where people could drink moonshine or other illicit beverages.
One of the most famous bootleggers was Al Capone, who ran a criminal empire in Chicago based on moonshine and other illegal activities. He was notorious for his violence and corruption, and he was eventually arrested for tax evasion in 1931.
Another famous figure in moonshine history was NASCAR driver Junior Johnson, who learned how to drive fast by outrunning the police on his moonshine runs. He later became a legend in the racing world, winning 50 races and becoming a member of the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
The Legacy of Moonshine
Moonshine may not be as popular as it once was, but it still has a loyal following among some people who enjoy its taste and tradition. Moonshine is also legal in some states, as long as you have a license and pay taxes on it. However, there are still some risks involved in making or drinking moonshine, such as poisoning, explosions, or legal troubles.
Moonshine is more than just a drink; it is a part of American history and culture. It reflects the values and struggles of many people who lived through the Prohibition era and beyond.
How Moonshine Influenced the Music, Literature, and Folklore of the American South
Moonshine is a term for illegally distilled liquor, often made from corn mash. It has a long and colourful history in the American South, where it was a way of life for many people. Moonshine was not only a source of income, but also a symbol of resistance, independence, and creativity. In this section, we will explore how moonshine influenced the music, literature, and folklore of the South.
Moonshine and Music
One of the most obvious ways that moonshine influenced the music of the South was through the use of jugs. Jugs were containers that held moonshine, and they could also be used as musical instruments. By blowing into the mouth of a jug, a musician could produce a deep and resonant sound that complemented other instruments like banjos, guitars, and fiddles. Jug bands were popular in the early 20th century, especially among African Americans who played a mix of blues, ragtime, and jazz.
Another way that moonshine influenced the music of the South was through the themes and lyrics of songs. Many songs celebrated the joys and dangers of making and drinking moonshine, such as “Mountain Dew”, “Copper Kettle”, and “White Lightning”. Some songs also told stories of moonshiners who clashed with the law, such as “The Ballad of Thunder Road” and “The Legend of the Johnson Boys”. These songs reflected the rebellious and adventurous spirit of the moonshiners, who often risked their lives for their craft.
Moonshine and Literature
Moonshine also influenced the literature of the South, as many writers drew inspiration from the culture and characters of the moonshine world. One of the most famous examples is William Faulkner, who wrote several novels and stories set in Yoknapatawpha County, a fictional region in Mississippi based on his own experience. Faulkner depicted the lives and struggles of poor white farmers who made moonshine as a way of survival. Some of his characters, such as Flem Snopes and Ab Snopes, were notorious moonshiners who used cunning and violence to achieve their goals.
Another example is Robert Penn Warren, who wrote All the King’s Men, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel about the rise and fall of a populist politician in Louisiana. The novel was loosely based on the life of Huey Long, who was assassinated in 1935. One of the main characters in the novel is Jack Burden, a journalist who becomes involved in the political intrigue. Jack’s father is a former moonshiner who abandoned his family when Jack was young. Jack’s relationship with his father is one of the sources of his moral ambiguity and cynicism.
Moonshine and Folklore
Finally, moonshine influenced the folklore of the South, as it gave rise to many legends and myths. One of them is the legend of Popcorn Sutton, a famous moonshiner from North Carolina who died in 2009. Popcorn Sutton was known for his eccentric personality, his distinctive appearance, and his skillful moonshining. He wrote a book called Me and My Likker, in which he shared his recipes and stories. He also appeared in several documentaries and videos that showed him making moonshine. He became a cult figure among moonshine enthusiasts and fans.
Another legend is the legend of NASCAR, or National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing. NASCAR is one of the most popular sports in America, especially in the South. It involves drivers racing modified cars on oval tracks at high speeds. NASCAR has its roots in moonshining, as many drivers started out as moonshine runners who used their cars to transport illegal liquor across state lines. They modified their cars to make them faster and more powerful than regular cars. They also developed skills such as driving fast, evading police, and navigating rough terrain. These skills helped them become successful racers when NASCAR was founded in 1948.
Moonshine is an expression of culture, tradition and innovation that reflects the personality and passion of the makers. By learning how to appreciate its unique flavours and aromas, you can discover a whole new world of sensory experiences that will enrich your palate and your life.
