What does "McCarthyism" refer to in the context of American history?

"McCarthyism" refers specifically to the campaign against alleged communists within the United States government and various sectors of society during the early 1950s. Named after Senator Joseph McCarthy, this movement was marked by intense suspicion and often baseless accusations against individuals suspected of having ties to communism or disloyalty to the United States. The context of the Cold War heightened fears of communism, leading to widespread paranoia and the violation of civil liberties as various government bodies, notably the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC), conducted investigations and hearings.

The impact of McCarthyism was profound, as it not only affected politicians but also had a chilling effect on artists, educators, and activists, many of whom lost their jobs or were ostracized due to unfounded claims against them. This period is characterized by a lack of due process and a culture of fear that discouraged dissent and encouraged conformity, significantly shaping American political discourse and civil rights movements in subsequent years.