Joseph McCarthy grew up on a Wisconsin farm where he learned the value of hard work. After serving in World War II, McCarthy capitalized on his military service to launch a successful Senate campaign. As the Cold War intensifies, McCarthy seizes the opportunity to exploit public fears of communism, framing himself as a defender of American democracy. Discover how his rise coincides with a national climate of paranoia, setting the stage for the demagoguery that would define his career. Explore the ambition, fear, and complexities of power, as McCarthy's story unfolds against the backdrop of a nation grappling with its identity and values.

Learn more about <a href="https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/films/mccarthy/#film_description">American Experience </a>

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Detours

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[BONUS] American Experience Presents - Joseph McCarthy

OCT 21, 202428 MIN
Detours

[BONUS] American Experience Presents - Joseph McCarthy

OCT 21, 202428 MIN

Description


Joseph McCarthy grew up on a Wisconsin farm where he learned the value of hard work. After serving in World War II, McCarthy capitalized on his military service to launch a successful Senate campaign. As the Cold War intensifies, McCarthy seizes the opportunity to exploit public fears of communism, framing himself as a defender of American democracy. Discover how his rise coincides with a national climate of paranoia, setting the stage for the demagoguery that would define his career. Explore the ambition, fear, and complexities of power, as McCarthy's story unfolds against the backdrop of a nation grappling with its identity and values.

Learn more about American Experience 

Follow the show on Instagram, X, Facebook, Threads