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Module 4 - Reds Under The Bed

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 * What impact did the fear of Communism have on Australian politics? **

It played a significant role in bringing Robert Menzies (Liberal) to power in 1949. The Liberal party was able to exploit anti-communist fears and turn such anxieties into votes against Labor. Chiffley’s Labor Government was seen to have socialist sympathisers amongst its ranks. This was because many Labor members were positive about the philosophy of Communism and believed in working with the Australian Communist Party. Menzies promised to ban the Communist Party of Australia (CPA) during his election campaign. Once he came to power he introduced the communist Party dissolution Bill in Federal parliament. Although it was passed by both houses, the Bill could not be made law because it was challenged in the High Court of Australia by the CPA together with 10 unions.

Module 4 - Activities and Exercises Due Thursday 15th February Work through the activities and exercises from the document above making sure to save your file. Please submit electronically

__**Resources **__
 * 1) Your class notes
 * 2) Your textbook
 * 3) This Wiki
 * 4) Links below
 * 5) Personal research

Click on link below to watch media clip Fear of Communism theme of 1949 Liberal Party election campaign
 * Politics of fear - in 1949 Election Advertisment **

11 November 1949 SMH Newspaper Article - Menzies attacks Socialism Click on link below Menzies attacks socialism

'Reds Under the Bed' Fear and Espionage Click on link below Director General of ASIO Spry's war against Soviet espionage