How fast do Americans change their minds on social issues?

Infographics published by Bloomberg Business map the changes in public sentiment around social issues like interracial marriage, prohibition, women’s suffrage, abortion, same-sex marriage and recreational marijuana. The data revealed a common pattern of a few states pioneering a change, followed by a key event like a court decision or grass-roots campaign, followed by a rush of state activity that leads to changes in federal law. Recreational marijuana use, now legal in just four states, is expected to be the next social issue to undergo a period of rapid change.