The media played a major role in bringing down Joseph McCarthy. While he made accusations about communists and started a major witch hunt in the American political scene, journalists worked to expose his lies and end the unrest and widespread claims of treason.
This is not a chronological history lesson. This lesson, instead, asks students to critically examine a historical event with which they are already familiar. Prior to this lesson, students should have a basic understanding of McCarthyism.
The lesson uses the following video. For additional videos, a historical timeline on the topic and more, view Moments of Truth: McCarthyism.