Interrogating Hollywood: The Red Scare Influence on Film and Society

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to identify the factors that caused the Red Scare following World War II and their roles in the movie industry. This thesis examines how the House of Un-American Activities Committee, the FBI, and the United States Congress worked together with the help of Hollywood executives, to eliminate the threat of Communist propaganda being portrayed in films. The study shows how people of significant influence can have lasting effects on society in terms of living conditions, violent riots, and the movie industry. Finally, this thesis offers possible methods for future research on how the history of media propaganda can be utilized to understand current events in media and society.