Lavender Scare

The Lavender Scare was a period during the 1950s in the United States when the government persecuted and dismissed thousands of people suspected of being gay or lesbian, considering them security risks. Fueled by Cold War fears and widespread prejudice, it targeted individuals in government and military positions, alleging that their sexuality made them vulnerable to blackmail or espionage. This crackdown led to loss of careers and damage to lives, reflecting societal bias against LGBTQ+ individuals during that era.