Opponents of the Temperance Movement presented several key arguments. Firstly, they contended that prohibition infringed on individual liberties and personal choice. Many viewed the consumption of alcohol as a personal matter, not warranting government interference. Secondly, they argued that prohibition would negatively impact the economy, particularly industries related to brewing and distilling. Another argument was that prohibition would lead to the rise of illegal and unregulated alcohol production, posing health risks and fostering criminal activity. Finally, some critics believed that the movement's moralistic approach was overly paternalistic and did not address the root causes of alcohol abuse.

The Women's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) extended its influence beyond temperance by advocating for a range of social reforms. The WCTU was instrumental in promoting women's suffrage, linking the fight against alcohol with the broader struggle for women's rights and political representation. They also engaged in campaigns for public health, education reform, and labour rights, reflecting a holistic approach to societal improvement. The organisation's involvement in these areas was driven by a belief that addressing social issues was integral to achieving its broader goal of moral and social upliftment. The WCTU thus played a pivotal role in shaping the broader social reform agenda of the Progressive Era.

The temperance movement employed a variety of methods to promote its agenda, including moral persuasion, educational campaigns, and political lobbying. Moral persuasion involved advocating the virtues of sobriety and the perceived immorality of alcohol consumption, often through religious and social organisations. Educational campaigns were conducted through pamphlets, lectures, and demonstrations to inform the public about the dangers of alcohol. Perhaps most effectively, the movement engaged in political lobbying, aligning with sympathetic politicians and influencing legislation at both state and national levels. This multi-faceted approach enabled the temperance movement to gain widespread support and achieve significant legislative victories.

The temperance movement exerted a significant influence on American politics during the Progressive Era by shifting the legislative focus towards social reform issues. It successfully lobbied for the nationwide prohibition of alcohol, leading to the ratification of the 18th Amendment. This achievement was a testament to the movement's political clout, as it mobilised a broad coalition of supporters, including religious groups, women's organisations, and political figures. Their influence extended beyond prohibition, contributing to a political atmosphere that was more receptive to other Progressive Era reforms, including women's suffrage and labour rights. The movement's success in shaping legislation demonstrated its ability to transform public sentiment into political action.

Prohibition had profound cultural and social impacts on American society. Culturally, it led to the emergence of speakeasies, underground bars where people could illegally consume alcohol. This illicit culture fostered a certain glamour and rebellion against authority, influencing music, fashion, and social norms. Socially, Prohibition altered the landscape of crime, with the rise of organised criminal groups that smuggled and sold illegal alcohol, leading to increased violence and corruption. The era also sparked a widespread debate about individual freedoms and government intervention, influencing public attitudes towards authority and law. In essence, Prohibition not only changed American drinking habits but also reshaped the nation’s cultural and social fabric.