LibGuides: Drinking Age: Background Information

Background Information

In the United States the minimum legal drinking age is 21, though many believe it should be lowered due to the fact that 18 year-olds are considered adults in all other aspects of law. Use the following sources to learn more about the debate surrounding the legal drinking age.

CQ Researcher This link opens in a new window
This resource provides an analysis of current issues from a variety of perspectives.

The Business of Food: An Encyclopedia of the Food and Drink Industries
Contains chapters on beer, distilled spirits, and wine that provide a history of the beverage and describe the industries that produce these beverages.
Encyclopedia of Food and Culture
Features multidisciplinary coverage of food and culture topics. Try searching, “alcohol,” or for specific alcoholic beverages to view its history.
Gale Encyclopedia of Psychology
Contains in-depth articles about alcohol use as a disease and its connection to mental health.
The SAGE Encyclopedia of Alcohol: Social, Cultural, and Historical Perspectives
Contains information about alcohol use in the United States amongst all age groups, and discusses topics related to drinking age and reform.