Why were congressional hearings set up in the 1950?

Congressional hearings in the 1950s were primarily established to investigate various issues, including allegations of communist infiltration during the Cold War, particularly through the activities of Senator Joseph McCarthy. These hearings aimed to address national security concerns, assess loyalty among government employees, and expose perceived threats to American democracy. The televised nature of these hearings also played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and increasing awareness of political and social issues during that era.