Drunks: The Story of Alcoholism and the Birth of Recovery

This exploration of America’s struggle with alcoholism traces the history of sobriety movements and shifting perceptions of addiction. It introduces key figures, from Handsome Lake, an Iroquois leader who championed sobriety, to the Washingtonians, a 19th-century group of reformed drinkers who led an early national movement. Medical advances, such as Dr. Leslie Keeley’s controversial “gold cure,” clashed with widespread skepticism about alcoholism as an illness. Prohibition failed to curb drinking, while figures like Carrie Nation took radical action against the alcohol industry. The founding of AA by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith marked a turning point, proving that long-term sobriety was possible. This account highlights the evolving understanding of addiction and the ongoing search for effective recovery.

This book may contain a sharpie mark on the top or bottom edge and may show mild signs of shelfwear.