In 1950, an obscure senator from Wisconsin stood before a small crowd in Wheeling, West Virginia, and ignited a firestorm that would change American politics forever. With a single speech, Joseph McCarthy thrust himself into the national spotlight, brandishing accusations of Communist infiltration at the highest levels of government. But was there any truth to his claims?

Discover the origins of McCarthyism in this three-part podcast series. From McCarthy's humble beginnings on a Wisconsin farm to his meteoric rise in Washington, follow the journey of a man whose name would become synonymous with political fearmongering.

Through rare archival audio, expert insights, and compelling storytelling, join host James Edwards as we uncover the story of a man who wielded power through fear and suspicion—a story whose legacy still echoes in today's political landscape.

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Credits:

Lead Producer: Devin Maverick Robins

Associate Producer: Meiqian He

Scriptwriter: Galen Beebe

Story Editor: Devin Maverick Robins

Editorial Advisor: John Bredar

Sound Designer: Jack Pombriant

Narrator: James Edwards

Executive Producer: Cameo George

Joseph McCarthy grows up on a Wisconsin farm where he learns the value of hard work. After serving in World War II, he capitalizes on his military service to launch a successful Senate campaign. As the Cold War intensifies, McCarthy seizes the opportunity to exploit public fears of communism, framing himself as a defender of American democracy. Discover how his rise coincides with a national climate of paranoia, setting the stage for the demagoguery that would define McCarthy's career—all against the backdrop of a nation grappling with its identity and values.

Learn more about American Experience

Follow the show on Instagram, X, Facebook, Threads and YouTube

-----------------------

Credits:

Lead Producer: Devin Maverick Robins

Associate Producer: Meiqian He

Scriptwriter: Galen Beebe

Story Editor: Devin Maverick Robins

Editorial Advisor: John Bredar

Sound Designer: Jack Pombriant

Narrator: James Edwards

Executive Producer: Cameo George

As Cold War fears grip 1950s America, Joseph McCarthy weaponizes accusations of communist infiltration, rocketing from obscurity to national prominence. Discover how one man's relentless pursuit of a lie explodes into a nationwide witch hunt. Through rare audio and firsthand accounts, hear McCarthy's audacious tactics unfold - from smearing political opponents to interrogating alleged subversives in government and beyond, no institution is safe, not even public libraries.

Listen as the televised hearings and flying subpoenas leave careers in ruins, as everyday Americans face an impossible choice: their principles or their survival. But as the senator's power reaches new heights, dark clouds gather on the horizon.

Learn more about American Experience

Follow the show on Instagram, X, Facebook, Threads and YouTube

-------------------------------------

Credits:

Lead Producer: Devin Maverick Robins

Associate Producer: Meiqian He

Scriptwriter: Galen Beebe

Story Editor: Devin Maverick Robins

Editorial Advisor: John Bredar

Sound Designer: Jack Pombriant

Narrator: James Edwards

Executive Producer: Cameo George