Were there in fact communists in America?

Question

The answer is undoubtedly yes. But many of the accused had attended party rallies 15 or more years before the hearings — it had been fashionable to do so in the 1930s.

Although the Soviet spy ring did penetrate the highest levels of the American government, the vast majority of the accused were innocent victims. All across America, state legislatures and school boards mimicked McCarthy and HUAC. Thousands of people lost their jobs and had their reputations tarnished.

Other Witch-Hunt Victims
Unions were special target of communist hunters. Sensing an unfavorable environment, the AFL (American Federation of Labor) and the CIO (Congress of Industrial Organizations) merged in 1955 to close ranks. Books were pulled from library shelves, including Robin Hood, which was deemed communist-like for suggesting stealing from the rich to give to the poor.

No politician could consider opening trade with China or withdrawing from Southeast Asia without being branded a communist. Although McCarthyism was dead by the mid-1950s, its effects lasted for decades.

Above all, several messages became crystal clear to the average American: Don't criticize the United States. Don't be different. Just conform.

Answer 1

Yes, there were indeed communists in America, particularly during the early to mid-20th century. The Communist Party USA (CPUSA) gained some traction, especially during the Great Depression when many Americans were drawn to its promises of social and economic reform. During this time, it was not uncommon for individuals to attend CPUSA rallies or join the party, often motivated by a desire for change.

In the years following World War II, the fear of communism, particularly during the Cold War, led to widespread paranoia and suspicion, exemplified by the actions of Senator Joseph McCarthy and the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC). While it is true that a number of individuals associated with communist organizations were found to be involved in espionage or supporting Soviet interests, many of those accused or investigated during this period were innocent and became victims of the so-called Red Scare.

The impact of McCarthyism extended beyond just individuals; it affected various sectors of society, including labor unions, education, and the arts. Unions were particularly targeted, leading to significant changes in their organization and operations as many sought to distance themselves from any communist affiliations. The merger of the AFL and CIO was one such response to the escalating fear surrounding communism.

Censorship grew as well, with books considered to promote communist ideas being removed from libraries, reinforcing a culture of conformity. Criticism of the United States, particularly in relation to foreign policy, became fraught with danger, as dissenters risked being labeled as communists.

In summary, while there were certainly communists in America, the broader context of the Red Scare meant that many innocent individuals were swept up in a wave of fear and repression, leading to a lasting climate of conformity and caution.