Voluntary societies on the struggle for sobriety in the period of Perestroika based on the materials of the Smolensk region (1985-1987)

Abstract

The article covers the last anti-alcohol campaign in the history of the Soviet Union during the Perestroika period. The aim of the work is to consider the creation and activities of voluntary societies fighting for sobriety on the example of the Smolensk region. The authors conclude that during the anti-alcohol campaign, there were created prerequisites for further increasing efforts to combat drunkenness and alcoholism and to establish a sober lifestyle. However, the restrictions imposed only led to queues in stores, absenteeism and an increase in moonshine brewing.

Keywords

• anti-alcohol campaign
• struggle for sobriety
• upbringing
• perestroika
• drunkenness and alcoholism
• brewing