Mccarthyism
MccarthyismSince Joseph R. McCarthy first used his political power to ruin the careers of hundreds of men, the term McCarthyism has forever been used to denote someone or something that uses their power to launch a groundless and mean spirited attack on a particular minority group.
Joseph R. McCarthy, possibly the greatest demagogue in the history of America, was also the strongest anti-Communist. In the minds of his friends and foes alike, he was an incredible person whose mere presence could be overpowering. He was a master at playing the press and his name was in the headlines frequently. He also perfected the art of playing on people's fears. His portrayal of Communism as the supreme evil allowed his accusations of "disloyalty" to be incredibly effective.
Of course, there were some things about the flamboyant Senator from Wisconsin that limited his effectiveness. During his storied career, he was never once able to prove an accused Red was guilty. He was a heavy drinker and had a soft spot for horse racing and poker games. Despite these shortcomings, he was able to become a national celebrity.
From his expensive election campaign, to his first speech on Communism, to the Army-McCarthy hearings, to his sudden death, Senator McCarthy has been a controversial figure. Even today, Senator McCarthy remains at the heart of a long-lasting argument about morality and politics. Some people feel that he was a counter-productive demagogue who aimlessly attacked innocent people. Others felt that he was bringing to the attention of America the eminent threat of Communism. He was a cold-hearted man who was a disgrace to the United States, whose anti-Communist fervor was not based upon ideology but upon his need for a headline gaining cause.
Joseph Raymond McCarthy was born in 1908 on a family farm in Outagamie County, Wisconsin. His parents were devout Catholics and told their nine children that "you shall live by the sweat of your brow". He went to a country school until grade eight, and at the age of nineteen became the manager of a grocery store in Manawa. He was a popular person and the store was very profitable. Then it was suggested by some friends that he go to high school, and in one year he crammed a full high school education, while being at the top of the class.
He enrolled in Marquette University in Milwaukee, where he graduated as a lawyer. McCarthy then set up a law practice in Waupaca, a nearby town, and it is reported that he took only four cases in nine months. At that time, he went to work in Shawano for Mike Eberlein. They worked together for three years until Joe won the judgeship for the Tenth District of the Wisconsin Circuit Court. Although he was exempt from...
To view the complete essay, you be registered.