The Role of Anti-Communism in Cold War Conservatism

Anti-communism served as the unifying force within American conservatism during the Cold War era, bringing together diverse groups ranging from free market libertarians to religious conservatives. This shared opposition against communism influenced the ideals and policies of the time, with figures like Milton Friedman and Jerry Falwell embracing anti-communist rhetoric to solidify their place within the political landscape. The conservative philosophy developed during this period emphasized fusionism, merging free market values, strong defense policies, and traditional moral stances, which defined the Republican Party's approach for decades. Consequently, conservatism became characterized by its response to international conflicts and its branding as a protector of American ideals against perceived socialist threats.