Which historical figure was primarily associated with the accusation of communists within the US government during McCarthyism?

Joseph McCarthy is primarily associated with the accusation of communists within the US government during the era known as McCarthyism, which took place in the early 1950s. He was a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin who became the face of a campaign that aimed to root out alleged communists in government and other sectors of American society. His methods were characterized by aggressive investigative tactics and often unfounded accusations, which contributed to a climate of fear and paranoia regarding communist infiltration.

McCarthy's hearings and speeches often lacked substantive evidence and relied instead on accusations and innuendos, which led to significant public distress and the tarnishing of many reputations. His approach and the resulting hysteria had long-lasting impacts on American politics and civil liberties. Understanding this context is crucial to grasping the significance of McCarthy's actions and their effects on American society during the Cold War.