McCarthyism

McCarthyism refers to a period in the early 1950s when U.S. Senator Joseph McCarthy led a campaign against alleged communists in the government and other sectors. Fueled by the Cold War's fears of Soviet influence, McCarthy conducted hearings that often disregarded due process, leading to accusations, blacklists, and ruined reputations based on little evidence. This era symbolizes the dangers of political repression and the violation of civil liberties, as many faced intense scrutiny and persecution without fair trials, fostering a climate of fear and suspicion in American society.