Includes "an historical outline of the origin, spirit and effects of the liquor-laws, as well as of the habits and circumstances of the people of Massachusetts, Virginia, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania; and will readily perceive that in regard to Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maryland, the Carolinas, and Georgia, tha author has endeavored to avoid repetitions, by confining his review to the particular features in which the laws of the latter colonies differed from those of the former."

Alcohol is a killerâ€"1 of every 13 deaths in the United States is alcohol-related. In addition, 5 percent of the population consumes 50 percent of the alcohol. The authors take a close look at the problem in a "classy little study," as The Washington Post called this book. The Library Journal states, "...[T]his is one book that addresses solutions....And it's enjoyably readable....This is an excellent review for anyone in the alcoholism prevention business, and good background reading for the interested layperson." The Washington Post agrees: the book "...likely will wind up on the bookshelves of counselors, politicians, judges, medical professionals, and law enforcement officials throughout the country."