What ideology fueled the fears of communism during the Red Scare?

• A. A nationalism
• B. A belief in the superiority of democracy
• C. A commitment to pacifism
• D. A sense of economic security

Answer: (B)

The ideology that fueled the fears of communism during the Red Scare primarily stemmed from a belief in the superiority of democracy. In the post-World War I era and into the 1950s, many Americans viewed the United States as the bastion of democratic values in stark contrast to the communist ideology, which emphasized collective ownership and the dismantling of capitalist structures. The rise of the Soviet Union and its promotion of communism were seen as direct threats to the democratic way of life, leading to widespread paranoia about communist infiltration in various aspects of American society, including government, labor, and education.

The belief in democracy was closely intertwined with economic concerns, national security, and a commitment to individual freedoms. This ideology galvanized public opinion, resulting in fears of subversion and a strong nationalistic response to perceived communist influences. Hence, the commitment to democratic ideals not only shaped the context of this era but also influenced how Americans reacted to the prospect of communism, leading to policies like loyalty oaths, blacklisting, and various forms of repression during the Red Scare.