Final answer:
McCarthy's accusations led to severe repercussions due to his practice of McCarthyism, characterized by unsubstantiated accusations without credible evidence. His downfall came after the televised Army-McCarthy hearings exposed his tactics, leading to his censure by the Senate. McCarthyism had a lasting impact on American society and politics, stifling dissent and progressive legislation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Senator Joseph McCarthy's accusations can be considered the main reason for the terrible repercussions on those he targeted due to his technique of making unsubstantiated accusations during the Cold War era. This practice, known as McCarthyism, involved accusing individuals, often without credible evidence, of being Communists or disloyal Americans. McCarthy's influence peaked with his appointment to the House Committee on Un-American Activities (HUAC), notably during investigations into alleged Communist influence in Hollywood that led to the blacklisting of actors, writers, and directors.
His downfall began with his aggressive and public accusations against the U.S. Army in 1954, which were televised during the Army-McCarthy hearings. McCarthy's bullying tactics and lack of evidence were broadcast to millions, culminating in the iconic moment when Army counsel Joseph Welch challenged McCarthy's decency. This exposure, coupled with prior skepticism from Americans and political figures over his groundless claims, led to McCarthy being censured by the Senate and the eventual end of his political career.
The effects of McCarthyism were profound, leading to widespread fear and the blurring of dissent and disloyalty in American consciousness. It also stalled progressive legislation, as politicians feared being branded as 'socialists'. Influential figures like Edward Murrow and playwright Arthur Miller indirectly challenged McCarthyism, the latter through his play The Crucible, drawing parallels to the Salem Witch Trials and the era's anti-Communist hysteria.