Final answer:
Senator Joseph McCarthy exploited American fears of communism by claiming unfounded communist infiltration within the government, maintaining public attention and advancing his political career. His tactics symbolize 'McCarthyism', characterized by baseless accusations and contributing to a period of repression.
Step-by-step explanation:
Senator Joseph McCarthy effectively capitalized on American fears of communism by leveraging the climate of suspicion and concern that surrounded post-World War II relations with the Soviet Union. By proclaiming that he had a list of known communists within the State Department, McCarthy tapped into existing anxieties, despite the list being fictitious. This approach allowed him to gain political support and further his own career by positioning himself as a vigilant crusader against domestic communist infiltration, even though his claims were largely unsubstantiated. The term 'McCarthyism' has since become synonymous with the practice of making accusations without proper evidence, often leading to public hysteria and extensive witch hunts.
McCarthy's tactics included using sensationalized and vague allegations, which were often impossible to disprove. This method not only kept his opponents on the defensive but also maintained public attention. He continued his strategy through various investigations, such as those into the Voice of America and the U.S. Army, which ultimately led to his downfall. When televised hearings exposed his bullying conduct and lack of evidence, American public opinion turned against him, resulting in his censure by the Senate and the end of his political influence.