McCarthyism
McCarthyism is the practice of making accusations of disloyalty, subversion, or treason without proper regard for evidence. It also means "the practice of making unfair allegations or using unfair investigative techniques, especially in order to restrict dissent or political criticism."The term has its origins in the period in the United States known as the Second Red Scare, lasting roughly from 1950 to 1956 and characterized by heightened fears of communist influence on American institutions and espionage by Soviet agents. Originally coined to criticize the anti-communist pursuits of Republican U.S. Senator Joseph McCarthy of Wisconsin, "McCarthyism" soon took on a broader meaning, describing the excesses of similar efforts. The term is also now used more generally to describe reckless, unsubstantiated accusations, as well as demagogic attacks on the character or patriotism of political adversaries.
was there anything stupid about McCarthyism in particular?
1950's fear of Communism is high in the USA
Led by Senator Joseph McCarthy (House of UnAmerican Activitie Committee)
Period of paranoia (1950-54)
Becomes a witchhunt
Suggestion of guilt was enough to ruin most peopl
Led by Senator Joseph McCarthy (House of UnAmerican Activitie Committee)
Period of paranoia (1950-54)
Becomes a witchhunt
Suggestion of guilt was enough to ruin most peopl