Prohibition began in 1919 when the Secretary of State announced that thirty-six states had ratified the 18th Amendment, making it part of the Constitution. In America, Prohibition was meant to eliminate the drinking of alcoholic beverages. Although it did not succeed completely, it did reduce the use of alcohol. During Prohibition, many people distilled liquor at home as moonshining, and numerous people obtained liquor at speakeasies or illegal bars. Purchasing liquor was illegal and very expensive, yet many people continued to drink. During the early 1920's, it is estimated that more than 1 million gallons of liquor was smuggled into the U.S. from Canada. Many people opposed Prohibition, arguing that the government wanted too much control over individuals' personal lives. In February of 1933, Congress proposed the 21st Amendment to repeal the 18th Amendment, and after the states ratified it, national Prohibition ended on December 5, 1933.