By the mid-1920s, bootlegging was estimated to be a multi-billion-dollar industry, 

Liquor was smuggled from Canada, the Caribbean, and Europe into the U.S. via land borders, hidden compartments in vehicles, and “rum-running” ships along the coasts.

Many Americans made their own “bathtub gin” and moonshine, but poorly distilled alcohol often caused poisoning, paralysis, or death.

Bootleggers frequently bribed police, judges, and politicians, making enforcement of Prohibition nearly impossible in many cities.

Bootleggers supplied thousands of illegal bars (speakeasies) nationwide, ranging from working-class basements to lavish nightclubs catering to the wealthy.