The committee was established in 1938 as the Special Committee on Un-American Activities. It was chaired by Representative Martin Dies Jr. of Texas. The committee's mandate was to investigate "the dissemination of subversive propaganda in the United States".
In 1947, the committee was renamed the House Un-American Activities Committee. It was chaired by Representative J. Parnell Thomas of New Jersey. The committee's mandate was expanded to include the investigation of "any other subversive activities".
HUAC held hearings and investigations into suspected коммунисты and fascist activities in the United States. The committee also issued subpoenas to individuals and organizations suspected of being involved in subversive activities.
HUAC's investigations and hearings had a chilling effect on the film and entertainment industries. Many actors, writers, and directors were blacklisted by the Hollywood studios for their alleged communist sympathies.
HUAC was controversial from its inception. Critics accused the committee of violating civil liberties and conducting unfair investigations. The committee was also accused of being a tool for the political repression of dissent.
HUAC was disbanded in 1975. Its records are now housed in the National Archives and Records Administration.