Federal Courts

In 1915, fewer than 200 people were convicted of federal offenses. As soon Prohibition goes into effect, though, cases involving liquor flood into the federal courts, and a court system quickly springs up to handle the volume. Other federal crimes are added to the books. By 1940, 48,856 people have been tried in federal district courts on charges ranging from immigration violations and motor vehicle theft to narcotic and postal offenses. Over 23,000 of these cases involve liquor tax laws.

Federal Theatre [presents] "It might happen to you" : A drama in three acts by Leon Lord : The most powerful courtroom drama ever written. Federal Art Project, 1939 Work Projects Administration Poster Collection (Library of Congress)