Questions: Why did many African Americans turn to the Communist Party of the United States? A. It promised economic equality for people no matter their race. B. Its membership was not required to testify before House committees. C. It had successfully elected large numbers of representatives in Congress. D. It allowed people of all races unlike the major parties.

The answer is A: It promised economic equality for people no matter their race.

Explanation for each option:

A. It promised economic equality for people no matter their race.

• Correct. Many African Americans were attracted to the Communist Party of the United States (CPUSA) because it advocated for economic equality and social justice, regardless of race. During the early to mid-20th century, the CPUSA was one of the few political organizations that actively fought against racial discrimination and supported civil rights for African Americans.

B. Its membership was not required to testify before House committees.

• Incorrect. This statement is not accurate. In fact, during the Red Scare and McCarthy era, many members of the Communist Party were called to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) and faced significant scrutiny and persecution.

C. It had successfully elected large numbers of representatives in Congress.

• Incorrect. The Communist Party of the United States did not have significant electoral success in terms of electing representatives to Congress. The party remained relatively small and marginalized in the American political landscape.

D. It allowed people of all races unlike the major parties.

• Incorrect. While it is true that the CPUSA was more inclusive and allowed people of all races to join, this was not the primary reason many African Americans turned to the party. The key factor was the party's commitment to economic equality and civil rights, as mentioned in option A.