Why is moonshine also called white lightning?

Moonshine is called white lightning due to its high alcohol content and clear appearance, which gives it a striking resemblance to lightning. The term dates back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries when illicit distillers would produce liquor in remote locations, often at night, to avoid detection by law enforcement. The whiskey they made was typically unaged and had a high proof, giving it a potent, "lightning strike"-like effect when consumed. The term "white lightning" became associated with moonshine due to its potent and clear characteristics.