House Un-American Activities Committee

The House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) was a U.S. congressional committee established in 1938 to investigate perceived threats of communist influence within the country. During the Cold War, it became known for questioning individuals in government, entertainment, and other industries about their political beliefs and associations, often leading to accusations and blacklisting. Its activities aimed to identify and combat communist infiltration but were criticized for violating civil liberties and fostering suspicion and fear. The committee's influence declined in the late 1960s, and it was officially abolished in 1975.