McCarthyism, which arose during the early Cold War era, was a response to the growing prominence of communism in American politics. It can be viewed as an irrational reaction driven by societal fears and grievances against the non-religious government.
Senator Joseph McCarthy played a crucial role in the era of McCarthyism and Anti-Communism. This essay aims to explore the distinction between McCarthyism and Anti-Communism, as well as how these phenomena were portrayed by the media. Additionally, it will analyze American foreign policy decisions influenced by anti-communism and assess the impact of the Red Scare on American lives. The Cold War was a significant event in U.S. history that led both Democrats and Republicans to compete in displaying their unwavering opposition to communism and promoting anti-communist sentiments during the late 1940s and early 1950s.
Senator Joseph McCarthy's actions during McCarthyism
...led to accusations of numerous Americans being communists or having communist sympathies, which he claimed indicated disloyalty to their country based on political beliefs. Lasting for about ten years, McCarthyism was fueled by these accusations, as well as fears sparked by communist expansion and the Korean War, reigniting the Red Scare. Within the United States Senate, McCarthy exploited these fears to bolster his political power.
According to a Washington Post reporter named Childs, it was stated that Robert La Follette faced attacks and smears from communists who despised him because he stood up for what they detested (Washington Post, 1950). La Follette closely observed the rise of McCarthyism and lost to Senator McCarthy in the Republican Primary in January 1950 (Washington Post, 1950).
Anti-Communism
refers to the opposition of communism and those who oppose communists. Senator McCarthy became a prominent figure
in the anti-communist suspicion movement during the tensions of the Cold War. He alleged that there was a significant number of communists within the federal government. However, his tactics ultimately resulted in his discrediting and censure by the United States.
The Anti-Communists, a coalition of diverse groups advocating for political rights, united to combat communism and promote social and economic initiatives. Their main goal was to expose and resist the threat of communism. Opposition to communism emerged in various forms throughout the 20th century as a response to its growing popularity (Wikipedia, 2009). In Europe, conservative monarchists fought against the initial wave of communist revolution from 1917 to 1922.
In 2009, Wikipedia stated that fascism and Nazism were extreme versions of anti-communism, using fear of communist revolution to gain political power and seeking to eliminate communism during World War II. Throughout the Cold War era, the media played a crucial role in keeping people informed about events in the United States and around the world. The media's ability to reach people globally has made it an important source of information for many.
Senator McCarthy defends his actions by citing the constitution, particularly Article I, Section 6, Clause 1. This clause grants immunity to Senators from arrest except in cases of treason, felony, and breach of the peace. As a member of Congress, McCarthy asserts that his speeches and debates within the House are exempt from scrutiny elsewhere. The Washington Post presents an article where readers can form their own opinions on McCarthy and gain insight into his beliefs. Another article in the same newspaper alleges that McCarthyism has harmed America's foundations and compromised national security. It also underscores
how McCarthyism has caused disunity, fear, and confusion among Americans (Washington Post, 1950).
The media had a significant impact on informing the American population about important matters, ultimately resulting in a strong dislike for communism among Americans. This sentiment was widespread throughout the nation and was largely influenced by the media. The conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union played a major role in shaping American foreign policy.
The main goal of U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War was to enforce a consistent containment strategy, which aimed at stopping the expansion of communism.
The United States aimed to undermine the Soviet Union and worked with its allies during the Korean War in order to overthrow the Iranian government. Following the Soviet Union's downfall in 1991, America expanded its global military and economic power.
The Defense Policy Guidance, authored by two members of the US Defense Department, established the structure for American foreign policy after the Cold War. This document was a reaction to both the disintegration of the Soviet Union and the commencement of the Gulf War involving Iraq. Nevertheless, due to a deficiency in innovative strategic thought, chances were overlooked. Consequently, there was a decrease in funding allocated to America's foreign policy while emphasizing enhancements in domestic economic prosperity.
During the Red Scare, there was a pervasive fear in society. This fear manifested itself through the creation of laws, racial tension, and mistreatment of individuals with differing viewpoints. The Red Scare emerged due to legitimate concerns about communist infiltration in the United States. According to William O’Neil, anti-communism should be viewed as a sincere, intelligent, and patriotic movement despite its extreme methods. Consequently, the Red Scare
had far-reaching effects on every facet of American life.
Americans have learned from the McCarthy era and the Red Scare in an effort to avoid repeating past mistakes. However, it is uncertain if this lesson will always be remembered or if history will repeat itself. I believe that Americans have gained some understanding, but history has a tendency to recur. Currently, remnants of anti-Communism and McCarthyism can be seen in politics, as evidenced by McCain's accusations during the presidential election that Obama shared communist values. The media also plays a significant role in shaping history and spreading global news. Additionally, I have explored how the Red Scare affected many Americans and their personal experiences.
Reference
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-communism
- Federal government essays
- Armed Forces essays
- Confederate States Of America essays
- Federal Government Of The United States essays
- Fourteenth Amendment To The United States Constitution essays
- Governance essays
- Parliament essays
- Politics essays
- Jurisdiction essays
- Bureaucracy essays
- Separation Of Powers essays
- Congress essays
- President essays
- United States Congress essays
- Non-Commissioned Officer essays
- Appeal essays
- Revenge essays
- Corporate Governance essays
- Public Service essays
- Income Tax essays
- Supply essays
- Red Cross essays
- Democracy essays
- State essays
- Liberty essays
- Absolutism essays
- Reform essays
- Republic essays
- John Marshall essays
- Bourgeoisie essays
- Developed Country essays
- Elections essays
- International Relations essays
- Left-Wing Politics essays
- Monarchy essays
- Political Corruption essays
- Political Party essays
- Political Science essays
- Sovereign State essays
- United Nations essays
- World Trade Organization essays
- Contras essays
- Dictatorship essays
- Foreign policy essays
- Monarch essays
- Corruption essays
- Foreign essays
- Democratic Party essays
- European Union essays
- President Of The United States essays