What did the phrase "witch hunt" refer to in the context of the Cold War?

The phrase "witch hunt" in the context of the Cold War refers primarily to the widespread unfounded allegations and paranoia regarding communism that characterized this era. This term was typically used to describe the aggressive campaigns led by figures such as Senator Joseph McCarthy, who accused many individuals, including government officials, intellectuals, and artists, of communist affiliations or sympathies without substantial evidence.

This climate fostered fear and suspicion, leading to a culture of denunciation and public trials without fair due process. The term aptly captures the essence of the Cold War's ideological battle, where accusations often stemmed from fear rather than legitimate evidence, promoting a divisive atmosphere that targeted many innocent individuals, thereby creating a historical parallel to earlier witch hunts that were similarly fueled by fear and social paranoia.