What was the stance of European settlers regarding alcohol upon their arrival in the United States?

European settlers had a complex relationship with alcohol upon their arrival in the United States. The stance that alcohol could corrupt both mind and body is correct because many settlers viewed excessive drinking as detrimental to both physical health and moral character. This perspective was influenced by religious beliefs and a growing recognition of the negative effects of alcohol on society.

During that time, there were also movements advocating for temperance that focused on the idea that alcohol led to social ills such as poverty, crime, and family disintegration. These beliefs were particularly strong amongst certain religious groups who emphasized moderation and saw drunkenness as a sin.

While alcohol was indeed consumed socially, and at times was thought to have health benefits, the concern over its potential to cause harm played a significant role in how it was perceived. Thus, the understanding that alcohol could negatively influence both one's mind and body reflects the sentiments of various segments of the early settler population, especially in the context of the emerging temperance movements.