McCarthy (political term)

"McCarthy" in a political context typically refers to Senator Joseph McCarthy, who gained prominence in the 1950s by leading aggressive investigations into alleged communist subversion within the U.S. government and society. The term "McCarthyism" describes the practice of making accusatory, often unfounded, allegations and conducting aggressive investigations in the name of rooting out perceived threats, often resulting in fear, loss of reputation, and violation of due process. It symbolizes a period of political paranoia and intimidation, emphasizing how fear can lead to unjust treatment and the erosion of civil liberties.