“McCarthyism and the Globalisation of US Foreign Policy, 1950–54”

What does the statement claim about McCarthyism’s impact?

That it pushed US foreign policy from a regional to a global focus between 1950 and 1954.

What was McCarthyism?

A period of intense anti-communist hysteria led by Senator Joseph McCarthy, marked by accusations of communist infiltration in the US government.

How did McCarthyism pressure US leaders?

Politicians feared being labelled “soft on communism,” making them more willing to support global anti-communist actions.

Give examples of foreign policy decisions influenced by domestic anti-communist pressure.

Support for France in Indochina, backing Taiwan (Chiang Kai-shek), and the expansion of CIA operations worldwide.

What key document showed US foreign policy was already becoming global before McCarthyism?

NSC-68 (1950), which called for worldwide containment and massive military expansion.

Why was the Korean War more important than McCarthyism in globalising US policy?

It led to global rearmament, alliances in Asia (ANZUS), and increased US military presence globally.

How did developments in Asia drive global US strategy?

China turned communist (1949), and the Sino-Soviet Treaty (1950) created fear of a unified communist bloc.

Give examples of US global commitments formed during 1950–54.

US-Japan Security Treaty (1951), ANZUS (1951), brinkmanship in Taiwan, early steps toward SEATO (1954).

How did McCarthyism influence foreign policy rhetoric?

It created a harsher, anti-communist tone and pressured the administration to appear decisive.

Did McCarthy personally control foreign policy?

No — he shaped the domestic climate but had little direct influence over strategic decisions.

Which president privately disliked McCarthy but avoided challenging him?

Dwight D. Eisenhower, who feared political backlash.

What were the real drivers of global US foreign policy?

Strategic planning (NSC-68), the Korean War, the rise of communist China, and global Cold War tensions.

How valid is the claim that McCarthyism caused the globalisation of US foreign policy?

Partly valid — it added pressure but was not the main cause.

What is the strongest judgement?

McCarthyism contributed to the tone of policy, but the direction of US global engagement was driven by international developments.