The term Red Scare refers to a period of heightened fear surrounding communism or other leftist ideologies. It is also a reference to the red flag often used to symbolize communism. In the United States, there are generally two date ranges referenced as Red Scare periods. The First Red Scare occurred between 1917-1920, and the Second Red Scare between 1947-1957. both the First and Second Red Scare occurred during periods of heightened patriotism when communist efforts abroad were seeing some success on the world stage. The First Red Scare took place from 1917-1920, and the Second Red Scare took place from 1947-1957. These time periods in the United States were characterized by the following: 1) Increased fear and paranoia about communism taking hold in America, 2) Private and government sponsored propaganda via posters, cartoons, television, and movies, 3) The rising tensions of the Cold War between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. Persecution of those suspected of being communist sympathizers or Communist Party members, particularly through what became known as McCarthyism. This was particularly recognized through the use of intimidation tactics and hearsay to make claims of treason.