Figure 4 Homicide Rate: 1910-44
Source: U.S. Bureau of the Census, Historical Statistics of the United States, Colonial Times to 1970 (Washington: Government Printing Office, 1975), part 1, p. 414.
“Are alcohol and other drugs being used? Is there any evidence for a significant difference in use when legal as compared to when illegal?”
Yes, one can look at violent crime, murder rate during prohibition and compare to recent times...and, would legalizing encourage usage or diminish it? Usage is what causes most of the violence, abuse, etc.
Figure 4 Homicide Rate: 1910-44
Source: U.S. Bureau of the Census, Historical Statistics of the United States, Colonial Times to 1970 (Washington: Government Printing Office, 1975), part 1, p. 414.