Click on the link here for Audio Player – The American Forum – How Far Should Government Reorganization Go – Feb. 20, 1955 – Gordon Skene Sound Collection
In the dark days of the 1950s, the fear of Communist infiltration in just about every facet of American life was almost as prevalent in the American psyche as Atom bomb obliteration from the Soviet Union.
The McCarthy Hearings were only one aspect, one part of the bigger picture in this wave of universal paranoia. The fear extended to the workplace – most companies instigated a system of Loyalty Oaths, particularly if the company in question had anything to do with defense or anything regarded as sensitive (which could be just about any company). But the fear was acute when it came to working for the U.S. Government. In the 1950s, The Hoover Commission was enlisted to study and recommend guidelines for Government Agencies in the hiring of employees, as well as trimming the size of those government agencies.
This program, part of The American Forum series from NBC Radio features a panel that includes Hoover Commission head Senator Homer Ferguson and several other members, answering questions over just how extensive this reorganization of the government go.
It’s a fascinating look at a confusing time. One that bears some resemblance to situations now – you’d think after 59 years . . . .
Here is that episode of The American Forum – How Far Should Government Reorganization Go? – From February 20, 1955.
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