Moe Smith (L) and Izzy Einstein (R). Image via Wikipedia- World Telegram staff photographer — This image is available from the United States Library of Congress’s Prints and Photographs division under the digital ID cph.3c18408.

Izzy And Moe, The 2 Most Ridiculous Prohibition Enforcers With A Talent For Costumes And Flair

Two of the most famous lawmen during the early days of Prohibition became known for their numerous arrests and zany costumes

American Prohibition was the ban on the production, transportation and sale of alcohol in the United States between 1920–1933. Ratified by the 18th Amendment of the Constitution, it sent the country into a volatile period, as many saw the vast potential to make profit from the large number of people who still wished to consume booze. Although the new law was unable to stand the test of time, it wasn’t for lack of trying. Two of the most prolific and famous enforcers of Prohibition were Izzy Einstein and Moe Smith, responsible for elaborate investigations and nearly 5,000 arrests, yet both were fired at the height of their success.

For years leading up to the enactment of Prohibition, there were numerous attempts to curb drinking in the United States. Temperance leagues, blue laws prohibiting alcohol sales on Sundays and other movements sought to cut into the impact of spirits, which were seen as having a deleterious effect on families and individuals alike. To help enforce the Constitutional ban, the Prohibition Unit was formed. This was a federal level law…