BALANCING NATIONAL SECURITY AND INDIVIDUAL LIBERTIES
During the 1940s the Cold War between the Soviet Union and the United States led to increasing fears amongst the American public of communist infiltration. As such, a second red scare commenced, and Congress established the House on Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) to investigate and interrogate individuals suspected of harboring communist loyalties.
The sensationalized trials held by HUAC would aid in transforming postwar America into a national security state, and the individual freedoms of American citizens would be challenged by the largest expansion of government powers in American history.
Delegates will delve into the intense political atmosphere of the HUAC hearings, and debate critical issues including but not limited to: (1) balancing national security and protections on individual liberties, and (2) determining the extent to which Soviet spies have infiltrated American institutions and creating an appropriate response plan. Through comprehensive debate, delegates will learn about the challenges of maintaining democratic principles in times of fear and uncertainty.