Cold War & Red Scare Fear

Cold War & Red Scare Fear

Station B

Fear and Lord of the Flies

key facts & evidence

• After WWII, the U.S. feared the spread of communism from the Soviet Union.
• During the Red Scare (late 1940s–1950s), thousands were accused of being communists.
• Government investigations questioned citizens about political beliefs.
• Some people lost jobs or careers based on accusations alone.
• Hollywood actors, writers, and teachers were blacklisted.
• Senator Joseph McCarthy claimed communists had infiltrated the U.S. government.
• Fear led many to avoid speaking out or sharing opinions.

Discuss

How can fear turn neighbors against each other? Why were people afraid to speak out? How does suspicion spread?