McCarthyism and Anti-Communism Flashcards

What was the 'Red Scare' in the late 1940s and early 1950s?

A widespread fear that communists were inside the US, trying to influence the government and society.

Who was Joseph McCarthy?

A US senator from Wisconsin who, from 1950, claimed many communists had got into the US government.

What is McCarthyism?

Making sweeping claims of communism without solid proof, linked to McCarthy's actions in the early 1950s.

What was HUAC and what did it do?

The House Committee on Un-American Activities. It held hearings to look into suspected communist influence, especially in Hollywood.

Who were the Hollywood Ten?

Ten screenwriters and directors who refused HUAC questions in 1947. They were jailed for contempt and then blacklisted.

What were blacklists?

Informal lists of people thought to be communists or supporters. Those named often could not get work, especially in film and TV.

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What was the Federal Employee Loyalty Programme of 1947?

President Truman's plan to check federal workers for disloyalty. Thousands were screened; some were sacked or resigned.

What happened in the Alger Hiss case?

Hiss, a former State Department official, was accused of spying. He was jailed for perjury in 1950, which raised public fears.

Who were Julius and Ethel Rosenberg?

A married couple found guilty of passing atom bomb secrets to the USSR. They were executed in 1953.

What were the Army-McCarthy hearings in 1954?

Televised hearings where McCarthy accused the US Army. His bullying style was exposed and he lost support.

How did McCarthyism end?

In 1954 the US Senate censured McCarthy. He lost power and the panic began to fade.

Name two events around 1949–1950 that increased fear of communism in the US.

China became communist in 1949, the USSR tested an atom bomb in 1949, and the Korean War began in 1950.

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