The Red Scare and McCarthyism Quiz

What was the main accusation made by McCarthy in his Wheeling speech?

• The Supreme Court was biased

• Communists had infiltrated the U.S. State Department

• The U.S. Army was harboring Communists

• The FBI was spying on American citizens

Answer explanation

In his Wheeling speech, McCarthy primarily accused the U.S. State Department of being infiltrated by Communists, which was a key point in his campaign against alleged Communist influence in the government.

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What was the Red Scare primarily characterized by?

• A struggle between national security and individual rights

• A focus on economic growth

• A campaign for environmental protection

• A movement for civil rights

Answer explanation

The Red Scare was primarily characterized by a struggle between national security and individual rights, as fears of communism led to widespread suspicion and the suppression of civil liberties.

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What was the role of the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC)?

• To promote American culture abroad

• To oversee military operations

• To hold congressional hearings for people suspected of Communist allegiance

• To investigate financial crimes

Answer explanation

The House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) was established to investigate and hold hearings on individuals suspected of having Communist ties, particularly during the Red Scare in the mid-20th century.

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What was the outcome for the Hollywood Ten after refusing to answer HUAC's questions?

• They were convicted of contempt of Congress and blacklisted

• They were sent to exile

• They were promoted in Hollywood

• They received government awards

Answer explanation

The Hollywood Ten were convicted of contempt of Congress for refusing to answer HUAC's questions and subsequently blacklisted from the film industry, severely impacting their careers.

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What was the effect of the Red Scare on progressive activism?

• It led to the creation of new political parties

• It had no effect

• It boosted progressive movements

• It strangled progressive activism

Answer explanation

The Red Scare created a climate of fear and repression, leading to the suppression of progressive activism. Many activists faced persecution, which ultimately strangled their movements and hindered their efforts for social change.

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What was the impact of loyalty screenings on federal workers?

• They were sent on international assignments

• They were given bonuses

• They received promotions

• They could become pariahs and lose employment opportunities

Answer explanation

Loyalty screenings often led to negative consequences for federal workers, as those who failed or were suspected of disloyalty could become pariahs, facing stigma and losing employment opportunities.

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What was the fate of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg during the Red Scare?

• They fled the country

• They were acquitted

• They were executed for conspiracy to commit espionage

• They became government informants

Answer explanation

Julius and Ethel Rosenberg were executed for conspiracy to commit espionage in 1953, making them the first American civilians to be executed for such charges during the Red Scare, highlighting the intense anti-communist sentiment of the era.

What was a common tactic used during the Red Scare to identify suspected Communists?

• Public debates

• Anonymous tips and accusations

• Scientific research

• International conferences

How did the Red Scare influence American foreign policy?

• It led to increased isolationism

• It encouraged alliances with Communist countries

• It resulted in a more aggressive stance against Communism worldwide

• It had no impact on foreign policy