Part 1: The Birth of McCarthyism

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 ----------------------- Credits: Lead Producer: Devin Maverick Robins Associate Producer: Meiqian He Scriptwriter: Galen Beebe Editor: Devin Maverick Robins Editorial Advisor: John Bredar Sound Designer: Jack Pombriant Narrator: James Edwards Executive Producer: Cameo George