I don't think this is a good example. There was a huge barrier to entry in the 50s to end up in a position to be recorded talking about something. Capable speakers would have been chosen more often than not.

There has always been pressure from various groups to say or not say things. I think the only thing that has drastically changed is how much easier it is to put something out there, and for the public to respond.

I'm sure Galileo would think political correctness is much better now than in his time.

edit: I just found this link that is a pretty interesting list of scientists being ignored, ridiculed, beaten, jailed, and killed for politically incorrect ideas that were later proven correct.

https://www.informationisbeautiful.net/visualizations/maveri...