What did the growth of communism in the US led to?

The growth of communism in the U.S. during the early to mid-20th century led to heightened fears of a communist takeover, contributing to the Red Scare. This resulted in widespread suspicion, government crackdowns on perceived communist activities, and the rise of McCarthyism, where numerous individuals were accused of being communists or communist sympathizers without substantial evidence. Additionally, it fostered a culture of political repression and limited civil liberties, as many people faced blacklisting and persecution for their beliefs or associations.