McCarthy, Joseph R. (1908-1957)

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 A grandson of an Irish immigrant, McCarthy became probably one of the most notorious Senators of his time. His base was Wisconsin where he received his law degree, became a Judge, and after serving in World War II, became one if its Senators. He was a leading anti-Communist figure and used questionable tactics to implicate a number of Americans. He eventually fell into disrepute after the Senate voted to censure him.

Photo: Spartacus Schoolnet


McCarthy on the Web:
Joseph McCarthy
A biographical piece covering his early public career, his military service in World War II and a detailed accounting of his Senate years with particular emphasis on his anti-Communist investigations. (Includes political cartoon).

Senator Joe McCarthy
Describes his youth, and his Senate career as it rose and then fell. Links to other McCarthy related material.

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Provides links to audio and visual clips of McCarthy.

Books about McCarthy:
Reeves, Thomas C. The Life and Times of Joe McCarthy: A Biography. Madison: Madison Books, 1997.

Schrecker, Ellen. Many Are the Crimes: McCarthyism in America. Boston: Little Brown & Company, 1998.

Additional McCarthy Materials:
A&E Biography Series — Senator Joseph McCarthy, An American Inquisitor.

The History Channel: 20th Century with Mike Wallace Series: Epic of Fear.