HW for Tues-Wed HUAC Pre-Screening Research

As relevant social and political context to your wider understanding of the themes in 1984, during your fusion lessons this week, we will be watching a film called 'Good Night and Good Luck' which tells the story of McCarthyism and House UnAmerican Committee in the 1940's-1950's.



1. Please read the following short article.

http://edsitement.neh.gov/lesson-plan/house-un-american-activities-committee#sect-background

Then

2. Read the following excerpt from House Resolution 282, the legislation that established the House Un-American Activities Committee in May 1938.  When you have finished, make a list of activities that you think might qualify as “un-American.” Be prepared to share your answers with the class. 

“Resolved, that the Speaker of the House of Representatives be, and he is hereby, authorized to appoint a special committee to be composed of seven members for the purpose of conducting an investigation of (1) the extent, character, and object of un-American propaganda activities in the United States, (2) the diffusion within the United States of subversives and un-American propaganda that is instigated from foreign countries or of a domestic origin and attacks the principle of the form of government as guaranteed by the Constitution, and (3) all other questions in relation thereto that would aid Congress in any necessary remedial legislation.”

3. Be Prepared to discuss your opinions after the screening of the film.

4. You may wish to document your thoughts here on your blog site before and after the film.