John Dalsell: Prohibition Leader, March 1910 Photo

This photograph features John Dalsell, captured on March 25, 1910, by a photographer from the Bain News Service. Dalsell was involved in the Prohibition movement as a leader and activist, fervently advocating for the banning of alcohol in the United States. His role in the temperance movement was significant during a time of social change, as Americans grappled with issues surrounding alcohol consumption and its implications for society.

The image is an example of early 20th-century photography, using a glass negative process that was prevalent at the time. This method allowed for high-quality reproductions and a level of detail that brought subjects like Dalsell to life. The glass negative measures 5 by 7 inches, making it a manageable size for distribution and publication. As an important figure in the temperance movement, Dalsell’s image served as a visual representation of the broader societal debates occurring in early 1900s America, reflecting the tensions between changing social norms and traditional values.

Understanding figures like John Dalsell helps illuminate the historical context of the early 20th century, where shifts in societal attitudes towards alcohol shaped legislation and cultural practices. The photograph not only captures a moment in time but also highlights the individuals who influenced significant movements and policies in American history.