Causes and Consequences of McCarthyism during the Cold War at Home

History
Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
8 questions
~16 mins
1 views0 downloads

About This Worksheet

This worksheet explores the causes and consequences of McCarthyism in the United States during the Cold War, helping students understand its impact on American society and politics.

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Causes and Consequences of McCarthyism during the Cold War at Home

Subject: HistoryGrade: Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
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Untitled Worksheet

Grade Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
A

Introduction to McCarthyism

Source A: Excerpt from a speech by Senator Joseph McCarthy 'Communists and subversives are infiltrating our government and society. We must root out these enemies to protect American values.' Provenance: Speech delivered by Joseph McCarthy, 1950.

1.
Explain why McCarthyism emerged in the United States during the early 1950s. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
2.
Compare the views of McCarthy and his critics regarding communism in America. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
B

Causes of McCarthyism

Source B: Report from a government official 'The fear of communist subversion has created an environment where accusations can be made with little evidence.' Provenance: Official government report, 1952.

1.
Outline the main causes that led to the rise of McCarthyism. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Analyse how Cold War fears contributed to the rise of McCarthyism. (5 marks)
[5 marks]
C

Effects of McCarthyism

Source C: Testimony of a former government employee 'Many innocent people lost their jobs or were blacklisted based on flimsy accusations.' Provenance: Testimony given in 1954 during hearings on McCarthyism.

1.
Explain the impact of McCarthyism on individuals and society. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Compare the perspectives of supporters and opponents of McCarthyism regarding its impact. (5 marks)
[5 marks]
D

Key Events and Legacy

Source D: Excerpt from a historian's analysis 'The decline of McCarthy marked a turning point in American history, highlighting the dangers of political hysteria.' Provenance: Historian's review, 2000.

1.
Outline the key events that led to McCarthy's decline. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Analyse the long-term consequences of McCarthyism on American society and politics. (6 marks)
[6 marks]

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Details

Created
1/1/2026
Updated
1/1/2026
Type
worksheet