Over the course of the 19th century alcohol and narcotics became heavily abused to the point that by the turn of the century alcohol abuse was listed as a significant cause of premature deaths. Though these vices have existed throughout the state's history, their prevalence has varied greatly over time. Additionally during some periods individual communities and public officials have been accepting of many of these activities, even when they were illegal, because of corruption, because the activities were seen as inevitable, or often because the activities were economically important. The legal status of the individual activities has fluctuated substantially over time. These activities, though always controversial, represented major influences in the state with some enterprises at times holding legendary status.

Law enforcement organizations have traditionally defined vice as including prostitution, gambling, alcohol and narcotics, and pornography. Vice activities, such as gambling and prostitution, have historically been a significant facet of both the state's culture and its economy. state of Texas has been an important part of the state's past and has greatly influenced its development. Aspect of history A saloon and courthouse operated by the legendary Judge Roy Bean in west Texas during the late 19th century

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