The Rise of the Cold War in America

Sep 3, 2024

The United States in 1945 and the Rise of the Cold War

Post-World War II America

  • Victory over the Nazis and Japan in WWII.
  • Millions of American troops return home to a stronger nation.
  • The US emerges as a superpower.

Rise of the Soviet Union

  • Defeat of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan allows Soviet Union to rise as a superpower.
  • The rivalry between the US (capitalist democracy) and the Soviet Union (communist dictatorship) begins.
  • Competition in economics, space programs, and militarily (nuclear capabilities).

The Red Scare

  • Fear of communism spreads in America.
  • Propaganda through posters, advertisements, songs, etc., warning against communism.
  • Establishment of the House Un-American Activities Committee to investigate communist activities.

Senator Joseph McCarthy

  • Leading figure in anti-communist sentiment; claimed communists were infiltrating American institutions.
  • Initiated a campaign to root out alleged communists, known as McCarthyism.
  • Supported by many Americans, accused individuals in government, businesses, universities, and media.

McCarthyism and Its Effects

Hollywood and the House Un-American Activities Committee

  • Hollywood targeted as being infiltrated by communists.
  • Example: Actor Larry Parks admits past Communist Party membership and refuses to name others, leading to prison.

Hollywood Blacklist

  • Loyalty checks by studio owners on employees to avoid hiring communists.
  • Blacklisting of writers, directors, and actors who did not cooperate.

Arthur Miller and "The Crucible"

Observation and Inspiration

  • Arthur Miller noted parallels between McCarthyism and the Salem Witch Trials.
  • Wrote "The Crucible," drawing parallels between the hysteria of witch hunts and McCarthy's anti-communist actions.

Implications of "The Crucible"

  • The play reflects fear and hysteria driving communities to extreme measures.
  • Innocent people confessing to avoid harsh consequences.
  • Mild success initially but gained attention from McCarthy.

Arthur Miller's Trials

  • Summoned by the House Un-American Activities Committee.
  • Refused to name names, citing loyalty to friends.
  • Found guilty of contempt of Congress, penalized with a fine, passport refusal, imprisonment, and blacklisting.

Legacy of "The Crucible"

  • Miller's most produced play even 60 years later.
  • Adaptations include an opera and a 1997 film.
  • Represents a timeless classic highlighting themes of fear, prejudice, and societal hysteria.