Joseph McCarthy gained prominence in 1950 after asserting that he possessed a list of Soviet spies and Communist Party members operating within the United States State Department. This claim initiated a period of intense political scrutiny in the United States, linking his name to a era defined by fears of internal subversion and aggressive ideological investigation.
Early Life and Legal Career
Born in 1908 in Grand Chute, Wisconsin, Joseph McCarthy initially worked on his family farm. He later pursued higher education, attending Marquette University and the University of Wisconsin–Madison. By 1935, he earned a law degree from Marquette University Law School. After practicing law, he secured a position as a judge in 1939, serving in that capacity until 1942. During his tenure, he was noted for his rapid handling of a significant case backlog.
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In 1942, McCarthy joined the United States Marine Corps despite his exemption from service due to his judicial role. He served as an intelligence briefing officer, eventually reaching the rank of captain. During his 30-month deployment in the Solomon Islands and Bougainville, he participated in combat missions as a gunner-observer. His service was recognized with the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal.
Political Rise and Censure
McCarthy began his service as a United States senator in 1947, holding the office through several terms until 1957. He became a polarizing figure through his investigations into suspected communist influence within federal institutions, including the United States military and the State Department. Following the Army–McCarthy hearings in 1954, the United States Senate voted to censure him for his conduct. He remained in office until his death in 1957.
Final Years
Following his censure, McCarthy continued his political career in the Senate until he died on May 2, 1957. He passed away at the age of 48 at the Bethesda Naval Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland. His burial took place at Saint Mary's Cemetery.
Fast facts
- Born: 1908, Grand Chute
- Died: 1957, Bethesda
- Citizenship: United States
- Education: Marquette University
- Political Party: Republican
- Military Rank: Captain
- Burial: Saint Mary's Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What was the result of the 1954 Senate vote?
The Senate voted 67–22 to censure Joseph McCarthy for his actions during his investigations.
What was the cause of Joseph McCarthy's death?
His death certificate listed the cause as acute hepatitis.
Achievements
- Educated at Marquette University, University of Wisconsin–Madison and primary school
- Worked as politician, military officer and judge
