Joseph E. McCarthy

Joseph E. McCarthy was a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin in the 1950s, best known for spearheading a campaign against alleged communists in the government and other sectors, a period known as McCarthyism. He claimed that many government officials and others were secretly communist sympathizers, leading to investigations, public accusations, and widespread fear. This often resulted in ruined careers and reputations. His aggressive tactics and lack of evidence ultimately led to public disillusionment and censure by the Senate, marking a significant and controversial chapter in American politics about civil liberties and the balance between national security and individual rights.