Support for the War Flashcards
Fear of Communism:
After WW2, Cold War fears led to the “Red Scare”. Fear of Communist takeovers abroad was still very strong.
Patriotism:
Many Americans were fiercely patriotic and loyal to the US government. They also felt that giving in to Communism would lead to the US “losing face”.
The Hard Hat Riot 1970:
Construction workers that clashed with anti-war protestors in New York. Peter J Brennan then led a pro-war rally on 20 March. They were seen to represent general working class support for the war.
Silent majority:
Nixon appealed to support for the silent majority in 1969- those that supported his policies but didn’t campaign for or against the war. His speech was remarkably successful and showed that lot’s of people supported his policy.
Political / Congress support:
Complicated and difficult to judge as many changed views when the President changed. Support from Congress changed over time but they still funded the war to a large sum.
