This page will help us keep track of some common historical anachronisms that authors may want to watch out for.

Prohibition

Prohibition (of alcohol) in New York City lasted 14 years, from Jan. 17, 1920, to Dec. 5, 1933. New York City was famously resistant to it, and mayor Jimmy Walker (1926–1932) openly opposed it.

During this time it was technically illegal to sell alcohol, though speakeasies (underground establishments where alcohol was served) flourished throughout Manhattan.

An important note is that drinking alcohol was not itself illegal; prohibition primarily outlawed its manufacture, sale, and transportation.

Terms & Phrases

While it may have appeared in print by the 1920s, the term "NYPD" may not have been used by police when introducing themselves until much later.

Miscellaneous

Police tape was not used to cordon off crime scenes until the 1960s.

SEE ALSO

See also our Research Pages for New York City