What was the Red Scare primarily characterized by?

The Red Scare was primarily characterized by a widespread fear of communism, particularly in the years following World War I and during the early years of the Cold War. This era was marked by intense anxieties about the potential spread of communist ideology, which was seen as a direct threat to American democracy and capitalism. The fear was exacerbated by significant events such as the Russian Revolution of 1917, which led to the establishment of a communist government in Russia, and the subsequent rise of communist movements in various countries, including the growing influence of the Communist Party in the United States.

During the Red Scare, campaigns were launched to root out suspected communists, often leading to the violation of civil liberties. This included the Palmer Raids, which targeted individuals believed to be associated with radical leftist movements. The cultural and political atmosphere was charged with paranoia, leading to an environment where many people faced accusations without substantial evidence. The impact of this fear resonated in various aspects of American life, influencing policies, public perception, and the overall political landscape.

The other options—fear of terrorism, control of the media, and economic inequality—while relevant issues in different contexts, do not encapsulate the essence of the Red Scare as directly as the