* One theory is that the phrase originated in the early 19th century, when American fur traders would often get drunk on fermented animal skins. Skunks were a common target for these traders because their fur was valuable, and they were relatively easy to trap and kill. After a long day of hunting and trading, the fur traders would often enjoy a drink or two, and it became common to say that someone who was very drunk was "drunker than a skunk."
* Another theory is that the phrase originated in the American Civil War. During the war, soldiers on both sides would often drink alcohol to cope with the stress of battle. Skunks were a common sight in the camps, and soldiers would sometimes use them as a target for target practice or for food. The phrase "drunker than a skunk" may have originated as a way to describe someone who was drinking so much that they were not even able to hit a skunk.
* A third theory is that the phrase originated in the Prohibition era. During this time, alcohol was illegal in the United States, and people who wanted to drink often had to resort to drinking illegal alcohol, which could be of low quality or even poisonous. Skunks were also a common sight during this time, as people would often keep them as pets or for hunting. The phrase "drunker than a skunk" may have originated as a way to describe someone who was so drunk that they were not even able to tell the difference between good alcohol and bad alcohol.
Whatever the origin, the phrase "drunker than a skunk" has been used for many years to describe someone who is very drunk. It is a colorful and humorous phrase that is still in use today.