Carrie Nation, a notable figure in the temperance movement, made headlines on June 7, 1899, when she entered a saloon in Kiowa, Kansas, armed with a hatchet. Known for her vehement opposition to alcohol, Nation believed that it was a root cause of societal ills, including domestic violence and poverty. With her hatchet in hand, she smashed bottles and barrels, a dramatic act that was both a physical and symbolic assault on the liquor industry. This method of protest was not entirely new; however, Nation's actions shocked many and captured the attention of the nation. Her campaign was fueled by her deeply held Christian beliefs and a desire for social reform, emphasizing women's protective roles in society.Nation’s act of vandalism was not merely an isolated incident. It was part of a larger crusade that she had been conducting across various states, where she would target saloons and bars, often with the slogan “Smash the windows!” Following the destruction of the inventory in Kiowa, Nation gained notoriety as a leader in the temperance movement and became a symbol of women's activism. Her efforts resonated with many who were disillusioned by the consequences of alcohol consumption and led to debates on the need for reform in American society regarding alcohol regulation. Her fervent actions also inspired others to join the cause and led to the formation of various women's temperance organizations across the country, further fueling the temperance movement in the years leading to Prohibition.