First Red Scare

The First Red Scare was the fear of communism and anarchism which erupted after WWI. Caused by anarchist bombings, the Bolshevik Revolution, and radical politics, the First Red Scare resulted in the seizure of over 4,000 accused radicals, thousands of deportations, and multiple raids organised by the US government. What was it like to live through the First Red Scare, and what did it mean for the US? Let's find out!

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    Frequently Asked Questions about First Red Scare

    What was the First Red Scare?

    The First Red Scare was a political tactic devised by the US government and led by U.S. Attorney General Alexander Mitchell Palmer. The period consisted of anti-communist hysteria in the US, when people were terrified that the Reds (Soviet communists) would infiltrate and take over the US government.

    What started the First Red Scare?

    The First Red Scare was started by the government and their fear that the Bolshevik revolution provided an ideological beacon for other communists across the globe.


    When was the First Red Scare?

    The First Red Scare took place from 1918-1920, ending after May Day 1920 when Palmers claims that there would be riots, assassinations and vast civil unrest on 1 May as American communists would attempt a coup were shown as false. The second Red Scare began in the mid 1940s and ended in 1954.

    What did the First Red Scare threaten?

    The First Red Scare threatened political radicalism, and an anarchist revolution. The fear of an internal Communist threat was also at large.

    What happened during the first red scare?

    During the First Red Scare, the US government produced and distributed anti-communist propaganda with the purpose of controlling public opinion. 

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    The Second Red Scare caused laws that restricted civil liberties to be passed, whereas the first did not.T/F?

    The first Red Scare happened because of fear resulting from the Bolshevik revolution.T/F?

    Who was the director of the FBI during the Red Scare?

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