Meaning:
The quote you have provided is a call to action by Thomas Jarvis, a politician, urging people to put an end to the sale and traffic of liquor, regardless of the name or guise under which it is conducted. The term "bar-room" is used to represent all establishments or means involved in the sale and distribution of alcohol. This quote reflects the strong stance against the alcohol industry and its associated social and health implications.
During the time when this quote was made, there was a significant movement in various parts of the world to address the negative impacts of alcohol consumption and the sale of alcoholic beverages. Many social reformers, religious leaders, and politicians were advocating for the prohibition of alcohol, citing its role in contributing to societal issues such as crime, poverty, and family breakdowns. This movement gained momentum in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, leading to the implementation of alcohol prohibition laws in several countries, including the United States with the passage of the 18th Amendment in 1920.
The term "bar-room" is used to encompass all venues and methods through which alcohol is sold and traded. This includes traditional bars, taverns, and saloons, as well as other forms of alcohol distribution such as liquor stores and speakeasies. By using this term, Jarvis emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the issue, highlighting the pervasive presence of alcohol-related establishments and activities within society.
Jarvis's appeal to the people to "put an end to the traffic" reflects a sense of urgency and a moral imperative to address the negative consequences associated with alcohol consumption. The use of the word "traffic" suggests a sense of movement and commerce, indicating the widespread and continuous nature of alcohol distribution. Jarvis's call to action is a direct challenge to the prevailing societal acceptance of alcohol consumption and the economic interests of those involved in the liquor trade.
The phrase "no matter under what name or guise it may be carried on" underscores the notion that the sale and distribution of alcohol can take various forms, and that efforts to combat its negative effects should not be limited by the specific labels or legal classifications of alcohol-related establishments. This statement acknowledges the adaptability of the alcohol industry and the need for comprehensive measures to address its impact.
In contemporary society, the debate over alcohol regulation and control continues to be a relevant and contentious issue. While prohibition laws have been largely repealed in many countries, concerns about alcohol abuse, addiction, and related social problems persist. Efforts to regulate the sale and consumption of alcohol, as well as to promote awareness of its potential harms, remain a focus of public health initiatives and policy discussions.
In conclusion, Thomas Jarvis's quote reflects a historical perspective on the societal challenges associated with the sale and traffic of liquor. By using the term "bar-room" to encompass all forms of alcohol distribution, Jarvis emphasizes the pervasive nature of the issue. His appeal to the people to take action against the traffic of liquor, regardless of its guise, underscores the comprehensive and urgent nature of the problem. The quote serves as a reminder of the ongoing societal dialogue and policy efforts aimed at addressing the impacts of alcohol consumption.