Chapter 19: Cold War Politics

Chapter 19 charts the growing conflict between liberal and conservative forces during Truman's presidency, the increasing fear of Communism that took hold and led to reckless suspicions and accusations, and the seeming triumph of conservatism during Eisenhower's presidency.

Section 1 traces the rise of conservatism in the United States following World War II. Shortages in jobs, goods, and housing had turned voters against the Democrats and the New Deal. After years of liberal activist government, Republicans gained control of Congress in 1947. The new Republican-dominated Congress, determined to cut back on New Deal spending and rein in labor, challenged Truman and labor in the Taft-Hartley bill debate. Truman's reelection looked questionable when the Democrats divided over civil rights and labor issues, but Truman managed to emerge victorious in the 1948 election.

Section 2 explains how the Red Scare reemerged and gained momentum in the late 1940s. As Chinese Communists came to power and reports of cold war espionage filled the media, Americans began to fear that Communists were undermining the United States government. The government's search for Communist sympathizers was on, and famous spy cases grabbed national attention. Congress passed anticommunist legislation, and even President Truman was anxious to prove he wasn't too soft on Communists. Helping to promote the hysteria was Wisconsin Senator Joseph McCarthy, who used intimidation and often unfounded accusations in the name of fighting communism.

Section 3 describes the Eisenhower years. At a time when Americans yearned for a voice of reason, Dwight D. Eisenhower reassured the nation that America was a safe and powerful country. He tapped Richard Nixon, champion of anticommunist activities in the Senate, to serve as Vice-President. The beginnings of the Space Age and a national highway program started under Eisenhower. Likewise, the beginnings of Communism in Cuba and Vietnam happened while Ike was President. In 1960 a young, energetic, and wealthy John Kennedy waged a successful run for the White House during a highly publicized and televised campaign.