McCarthyism and US dominance in the UN

When did Truman pass the Loyalty Order?

March 1947

What was the aim of this?

It established a programme in the US to root out communist influence in the federal government.

What was the purpose of the House of un-American Activities Committee?

To investigate communist infiltration into US affairs.

What occurred in 1950 which reflected badly on the Truman administration?

Alger Hiss was convicted of perjury in January and Truman was criticised for being 'soft' on communism and for the loss of China.

What did McCarthy promote and exploit?

That there was an army of communist conspirators working within the US government.

He exploited anti-communist anxieties which were strengthened from 1950.

What caused his downfall?

He claimed that 'Reds had infiltrated the army and was found guilty in December 1954.

How did the US act as 'global policeman'?

UN member states were US allies. It refused to allow the PRC to become a member of the UN, isolating it.

Enhanced the commitment to protect Taiwan and strategic defence perimeter e.g. SEATO.