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BC Books Online was created for anyone interested in BC-published books, and with librarians especially in mind. We'd like to make it easy for library staff to learn about books from BC publishers - both new releases and backlist titles - so you can inform your patrons and keep your collections up to date.
Our site features print books and ebooks - both new releases and backlist titles - all of which are available to order through regular trade channels. Browse our subject categories to find books of interest or create and export lists by category to cross-reference with your library's current collection.
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Enlarge Cover
list price: $14.99
edition:eBook
category: History
published: Sep 2004
ISBN:9781553800927
publisher:
Ronsdale Press
Description
This fascinating history of alcohol consumption in British Columbia focuses on two periods of harsh liquor prohibitions: first on its Native population from 1854 to 1962, and second, on the entire population, during the 1917 to 1921 period. Using formerly closed police files, Douglas Hamilton traces the scandals, corruption and crime that resulted from the implementation of prohibition. Includes archival photos.
Editorial Reviews
“Sobering Dilemma is a richly researched and colourful story of an under-represented chapter of British Columbia history. Beautifully written, this book is a joy ride from beginning to end.”—Wendy Wickwire, Department of History, University of Victoria
“An engaging account of why some British Columbians have been willing to control the rights of others to drink beer, wine or spirits. Racism, moral certainty, fear of drunkenness — they’ve all played a role in prohibiting, regulating and demonizing liquor. Sobering Dilemma reminds us of the dangers of smugness in thinking that we have the answers on behalf of others.”—Jean Barman
“Sobering Dilemma is much more than a history of prohibition. It is a lively tale of drinking, prosecution, and persecution. The secret files of the B.C. Provincial Police are particularly fascinating. At times you will shake your head in disbelief about our colourful liquor past.”—Dr. Robert A. Campbell, author of Sit Down and Drink Your Beer: Regulating Vancouver’s Beer Parlours, 1925-1954
