What was "Mother's Ruin"?

Gin was named Mother's Ruin as due to the price, many people drank gin as it was much cheaper to obtain than other spirits. Generally, women drank it more than men and once they got hooked, the result was mistreatment of their children and prostitution.

Player #13250071, yes, woman were advised to sit in a hot bath and drink gin if they had an unwanted pregnancy

I'll stick to Jack Daniel's or Tia Maria.

Player Elf Counsel, I was told it was because it was quite cheap and women drank it very regularly affecting their lifestyles and families... I think

Gin is never associated with celebrations. It is always paired with dissolution and despair. I would neither cook with nor drink Gin regardless of the juniper berries and select herbs and botanicals in its distillation. I similarly regard Tequila in the same spirit. Bourbon is a distasteful drink the Americans prize. A well aged 18 to 25 year old Single Malt or Rum, a nice Cognac or a beautiful Tempranillo with a smooth finesse and sandalwood at the end paired with a roasted saddle or leg of lamb and a fresh mint sauce is my game. But to each, their own.

you missed out the slogan of the time "drunk for a penny dead drunk for tuppence" G and T is my favourite tipple

Of all the alcohol drinks, Gin makes me an Angry, nasty drunk. Guess I know why now! Thank you for that question!