Secret Alberta: Prohibition

Summary

The video explores the complex history of prohibition in the Crowsnest Pass and Alberta, highlighting the era's key figures like Emilio Picariello, a notorious bootlegger. Despite public disinterest in prohibition, it was enacted in 1916, leading to a thriving illegal liquor trade, especially in Fernie, where immigrant communities resisted the ban. The narrative intertwines themes of organized crime, law enforcement challenges, and societal attitudes toward alcohol. The eventual execution of Picariello and his accomplice reflects the turmoil of the time and raises questions about the effectiveness of prohibition, ultimately leading to its repeal in 1924.

Takeaways

• 😀 Prohibition in the Crowsnest Pass was met with resistance, as many residents opposed its enactment.
• 😀 Emilio Picariello, known as the 'Al Capone of the past,' became a notorious figure in the rum-running scene.
• 😀 The Crowsnest Pass, once a booming coal mining area, saw miners frequently spending their paychecks in bars.
• 😀 Prohibition was viewed by various social movements, including the Temperance Movement, as a way to improve society.
• 😀 The introduction of prohibition in 1916 faced challenges, leading to the rise of rum-running activities.
• 😀 Emilio Picariello leveraged his existing businesses to become a major player in the illegal alcohol trade.
• 😀 The Alberta Provincial Police were tasked with enforcing prohibition, but their efforts faced significant challenges.
• 😀 Constable Stephen Lawson's pursuit of bootleggers, particularly Picariello's family, led to escalating tensions.
• 😀 A violent confrontation between Constable Lawson and Emilio Picariello's associates resulted in a police officer's death.
• 😀 Public sentiment shifted dramatically after the repeal of prohibition in 1924, changing perspectives on the law and its enforcement.

Q & A

What was the public perception of prohibition in the Crowsnest Pass?

Many people in the Crowsnest Pass did not support prohibition, viewing the rum runners as having a 'quasi Robin Hood' appeal.

Who was Emilio Picariello and why is he significant in this context?

Emilio Picariello, often referred to as the 'Al Capone of the past,' was a prominent figure in the rum-running operations during prohibition, known for his extensive network and illegal brewing activities.

How did prohibition affect the drinking habits of miners in the region?

Miners, who typically spent their paychecks in bars, found prohibition restrictive, as they were used to socializing and drinking after long shifts.

What role did the Alberta Provincial Police play during prohibition?

The Alberta Provincial Police were established to enforce prohibition laws and other policing duties, but they struggled with the enforcement due to widespread non-compliance.

What was the impact of the social movements mentioned in the script on prohibition?

Movements such as the Social Gospel, Women's Suffrage, and Organized Labour viewed liquor as harmful to society and rallied for prohibition as a means to improve societal conditions.

What was the significance of the 21st of September, 1922, in the narrative?

On this date, Constable Stephen Lawson pursued Emilio Picariello's son, which led to a confrontation that escalated tensions between law enforcement and the bootlegging community.

What events led to the arrest and execution of Emilio Picariello?

After a heated confrontation with Constable Lawson, where shots were fired, both Picariello and his associate Florence Lassandro were arrested and eventually hanged for the murder of Lawson.

How did the local community react to the actions of the Alberta Provincial Police?

The public sentiment was largely against Italian immigrants, who were viewed as lawless and responsible for the violence, leading to a push for stricter law enforcement.

What changes occurred in public opinion after the repeal of prohibition in 1924?

After prohibition was repealed, public opinion shifted dramatically, recognizing that prohibition had failed and that a different approach to liquor laws was needed.

Why is the history of prohibition in the Crowsnest Pass considered important today?

Understanding this history helps illuminate the complexities of Canadian society, revealing that there are numerous interesting and significant stories that challenge the perception of Canadian history as dull.