JCMO Today

At War with King Alcohol: Debating Drinking and Masculinity in the Civil War

When
November 19, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Where
Missouri State Archives · 600 West Main Street, Jefferson City, 65101 · Directions ↗ · About this place →
Cost
See listing
Type
Food

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Liquor was essential to military culture as well as healthcare regimens in both the Union and Confederate armies. But its widespread use and misuse caused severe disruptions as unruly drunken soldiers and officers stumbled down roads and through towns, colliding with civilians. The problems surrounding liquor prompted debates among military officials, soldiers, and civilians as to what constituted acceptable drinking. While Americans never could agree on precisely when it was appropriate to make or drink alcohol, one consensus emerged: the wasteful manufacture and reckless consumption of spirits during a time of Civil War was so unpatriotic that it sometimes bordered on disloyalty. Presented by author Megan Bever The Thursday Evening Speaker Series is a free, monthly lecture series open to the public. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Programs are held at the Missouri State Archives, located at 600 W. Main Street in Jefferson City. Programs are livestreamed on YouTube. The series is underwritten by the Friends of the Missouri State Archives.

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Source: newstribune.com ↗