The author argues that although there is substantial and longstanding research evidence that alcohol and interpersonal violence are associated, the research fails to establish conclusively the direct, unmediated impact of alcohol on violence. That so much drinking of alcoholic beverages occurs daily in the United States and other countries that does not result in violence underscores the more complex mechanisms by which alcohol influences violent behavior; e.g., factors such as personality, social context, and culture interact with alcohol consumption to determine whether violent behavior ensues. To illuminate the possible direct and indirect causal links between alcohol and violence, this chapter reviews some major themes of theoretical formulations in this area, ranging from the morally infused "disinhibition" framework to the more contemporary perspective that takes into account multiple causal factors and channels. This is followed by a summary of major research on the connection between alcohol and violent crime, domestic violence, and victimization, as well as the relationship between drinking and levels of community violence. The findings indicate an impressive overall association in each of these areas. Recommendations for future research are offered. 56 references.