How the Cold War Affected United States Domestic Policy and American Society

In the late 1940’s, American society underwent several changes. World War II was over, and most of Europe had been forced to pick up the broken pieces of what was left of itself. But despite Europe taking the brunt of the war, America also went through its fair share of struggles. Due to the expanding threat of the Soviet Union, or mainly its Communist way of life, America took a step into what is now known as the Cold War. This war did not involve direct fighting with Russia, but still affected American society and domestic policy. The war led to a fear of the population’s livelihood when Joseph McCarthy began his “witch hunt” for those involved in the Communist party. Besides this, the Cold War led to an enlarged fear of nuclear war, as well as tax payer money being spent on defense and expansion of sciences.

Other than the fear of impending doom, during the Cold War, one of the main fears an American had was being accused of being a communist. The “red scare” really spread when a man by the name of Joseph McCarthy came up with a list that stated the names of “known” communists that invaded the American government. This list began a process that eventually led to the formation of the House Committee on Un-American activities. This group was responsible for the investigations of anyone under suspicion of being a Communist. They would attack anyone in their way and claim it was justified because they feared the Communists invading their nation. Eventually, things got to a point where the government began to require employees to pledge an oath stating that they are not, and have never been a part of the Communist party. Breaking this oath meant a definite investigation and possibly a trial. Never before had something like this happened in American society. Many applauded the government for rooting out the cause of the Cold War, but many also questioned the many accusations against potentially innocent individuals. The Cold War caused American society to become divided over the fight against communism, and worse, pinning neighbor against neighbor, instilling a permanent fear in the lives of everyday citizens.

Though the Cold War had never gotten to a point of actual battle, the threat of a real war was always looming over the heads of Americans. The situation at the hands of the two nations led to an arms race, each constantly looking over their shoulder at the possible actions the other might carry out. The Cuban Missile crisis was an eye opener for Americans. It showed that the war could happen with a single press of a button. That is why more money began to be spent on the protection of American lives. Homeowners started to