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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.
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