- Both were characterized by a climate of fear and paranoia, in which real or perceived threats were exaggerated and people were quick to accuse others.
- In both cases, the accused were often innocent people who were targeted because they were different or unpopular.
- Both the witch trials and the McCarthy hearings were fueled by a lack of evidence and by the spread of misinformation.
- Both periods saw the use of leading questions, guilt by association, and other tactics to force people to confess to crimes they did not commit.
- In both instances, the accused were given little opportunity to defend themselves or to present evidence in their favor.
- Both the witch trials and the McCarthy hearings resulted in the destruction of lives, reputations, and communities.
- Both episodes have left lasting legacies of fear and suspicion in American culture.