Hollywood Ten, 1947

Who were the Hollywood Ten?

The Hollywood Ten were a group of producers and writers who were investigated because they were believed to be communists. The group included Alvah Bessie, John Howard Lawson and Dalton Trumbo.

When were the Hollywood Ten under investigation?

The Hollywood Ten case was in 1947.

What were the Hollywood Ten accused of?

The Hollywood Ten were accused of being communist and using their positions in Hollywood to spread communist views.

What happened at the trial of the Hollywood Ten?

There were 4 main events during the Hollywood Ten case:

• ❖ The House of Un-American Activities Committee was investigating suspected communist influence in Hollywood and called the Hollywood Ten to answer questions.
• ❖ All 10 directors and writers refused to answer any questions, in line with their rights under the First Amendment.
• ❖ They were found in contempt of Congress in April 1948.
• ❖ They were each fined $1,000 and sent to prison for 1 year.

What were the consequences of the Hollywood Ten case?

There were 3 main consequences of the Hollywood Ten case:

• ❖ Loyalty boards were set up by the FBI to investigate government workers, as the case created fear there were more 'Reds' working in powerful positions.
• ❖ The Hollywood Ten served their time in prison and were blacklisted so they could not work in Hollywood. However, some did continue to work under 'pen names', or assumed names.
• ❖ The number of people in Hollywood investigated for being communist grew and so did the blacklist. All those listed were no longer able to work in the entertainment industry, so their careers were ruined.