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Examples Of Anticommunism In The 1970's

714 Words3 Pages

During the 1970’s, there was a deep and unwavering shift in American politics, culture, and trust. The politics and culture would reflect the shifting attitudes of anticommunism during the crumbling of Détente, or the easing of strained relationships, especially political ones, with communist countries. This shift would send shockwaves throughout the world that are still being felt to this day. Americans began to shift towards anticommunist sentiments and fear of the Soviet Union’s threats to national security, shown by intense scrutiny of the United States intelligence community. This scrutiny would be driven by the Vietnam War and governmental misconduct such as the Watergate scandal. However, despite relentless, unwavering protests, key …show more content…

His sentiments were shared by CIA director William Colby, who cooperated with investigations made by the Church and Pike committees but believed the actions made were essential and vital during the Cold War. Another high-ranking official who deeply disagreed with this change in attitude was the secretary of state for both President Nixon and President Ford, Henry Kissinger. Kissenger strongly believed that the reduction of intelligence activities would lessen the strength of the United States in the battle of geopolitical struggle against the Soviet Union. These high-ranking officials would be backed up by conservative government officials and former intelligence agents who defended the exposed actions for the same reasons as Ford, Colby, and Kissenger. These dissents would publicly counteract the change in ideology by giving speeches, congressional testimony, and media appearances in favor of the actions committed and the importance of defeating the Soviet Union. Privately, they would influence legislation and ongoing policies to protect national security and intelligence

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