Communism instilled widespread fear and paranoia within the United States, leading to the rise of McCarthyism. The fear of communist infiltration into American institutions resulted in intense scrutiny and accusations of disloyalty. As documented in Paul Robeson's appearance before the House Un-American Activities Committee, individuals were targeted and accused of communist sympathies, often facing severe consequences such as loss of employment and social ostracization. Robeson declared, "I have in my hand 57 cases of individuals who would appear to be either card-carrying members or certainly loyal to the Communist Party," highlighting the pervasive atmosphere of suspicion and accusation during this period.
