Moonshine, also known as white lightning, is a form of distilled alcoholic beverage, typically made in the home or on a small scale. The history of moonshine dates back to the colonial period of the United States when settlers used corn to make alcohol. During this time, settlers used stills to produce their own alcohol, which was illegal due to high taxes imposed by the British government. This led to the creation of illegal stills and moonshine, as it was much easier to conceal from authorities than legal stills.
With the repeal of the 18th Amendment in 1933, moonshine lost its illegal status. However, the practice of moonshining continued throughout the 20th century in various parts of the United States, including Appalachia and the South. Bootlegging, or the illegal sale of moonshine, was common in these areas. Moonshine has also been used in the production of illicit drugs, such as methamphetamine.
Today, moonshine is still produced illegally in some parts of the United States and is also commercially available in some states. The term "moonshine" is also used to refer to any illegally produced or untaxed alcohol, although this is not an accurate definition.
