The Hollywood Ten: Spies in Hollywood? Guilty or Innocent?
In the early 1950's, dozens of Hollywood actors, producers, screenwriters -even Walt Disney- were accused of acting as spies or saboteurs who sought to undermine the United States government. Were they guilty, or innocent? This class looks at their story.
What's included
1 live meeting
1 hrs 5 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
US Grade 8 - 11
COURSE CONTENT: This is a one-time class examining the Hollywood Ten and their role in Cold War America. The Hollywood Ten were members of the Hollywood elite. They were directors, script writers, and actors. This class will look at themes and events such as McCarthyism, World War II, the Soviet Union, Communism, and the House Committee on Un-American Activities. We will also talk about important event like the Army-McCarthy Hearings, and people such as Edward R. Murrow. Students will examine primary sources, watch period videos, and listen to a lecture examining the Hollywood Ten. At the end of class, learners will be asked to explain why they believe the Hollywood Ten were either guilty or innocent. LEARNER EXPECTATIONS: - The minimum enrollment for this course is three learners. If less than three learners are enrolled 24 hours prior to the first class beginning, the instructor may cancel the section with a full refund. - Enrolled learners are expected to be on camera for the duration of each live-session class. This is to ensure learner safety and participation. - Enrolled learners are excepted to attend class on time, or communicate any absences PRIOR to class. Learners who fail to attend class will be unenrolled from the course without a refund. If a learner is late, the instructor will wait 10 minutes after the class starting time. After 10 minutes, the learner will not be permitted to enter the class and it will count as an absence. No refund will be given. DISCLAIMER: This class watches several videos of the Hollywood Ten hearings, Edward R. Murrow's speeches, and Senator McCarthy's committee hearings. As a result of streaming these videos, this class may experience technical difficulties. In the event of technical difficulties, please sign out of the zoom class meeting, and try joining again.
Learning Goals
By the end of this class, students will be familiar with the Hollywood Ten, Joseph McCarthy, and the House Committee on Un-American Activities.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
This course discusses topics such as Communism, the U.S. Constitution, and social blacklisting. These are serious topics, some of which may continue to impact our world today. This class is intended for mature students looking to learn more about Cold War America.
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Master's Degree from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Bachelor's Degree in History from Belmont Abbey College
I hold a BA in History and Political Philosophy, and I am currently pursuing an MA in International Relations. My undergraduate thesis examined Soviet espionage and the McCarthy Red Scare of the 1940s and 1950s. I have read several books on the topic, and enjoy every opportunity to share Cold War history with others.
Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$15
per classMeets once
65 min
Completed by 20 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-18
3-7 learners per class