Journey Through Time 74. McCarthyism: How The Red Scare Gripped America (Ep 1)
Feb 16, 2026
A deep dive into the rise of anti‑communist purges and how accusation became a political ritual. Traces the roots of 'America First' back to 19th century nativism and its long political life. Explores early Red Scare raids, the creation of congressional investigations, and how loyalty tests, legal tools and geopolitical shocks widened the net.
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Long History Of "America First"
- The phrase "America First" predates the 20th century and originated with 1850s nativism.
- It framed who counted as truly American and seeded long-term xenophobic politics.
Media Fueled Nationalist Slogans
- "America First" became ubiquitous via newspapers and political slogans by WWI and the 1920s.
- Media amplification normalized the idea that political opponents put foreign interests first.
Dies Committee Origins
- Congress created the House Committee on Un-American Activities in 1938 under Martin Dies.
- Dies used publicity-driven accusations and little concern for proof to pursue subversives.