- The Cold War heightened fears of internal subversion by communists and their sympathizers.
- Senator Joseph McCarthy led the charge to ferret out communists in government, Hollywood, and other institutions.
- The pursuit of anti-communism sometimes threatened civil liberties and due process.
- The Red Scare diverted attention and resources from domestic issues such as poverty and civil rights.
- Increased military spending during the Cold War fueled economic growth but also contributed to inflation.
- The Cold War helped strengthen federal power and the national security state.