Salem Witch Trials: Puritans and Accusations

• The Salem witch trials were one of the darkest and most unjust events in American history.
• Trials in 1692-1693 in Massachusetts led to accusations of witchcraft against dozens of people, many of whom were executed.
• Thirty people were found guilty, and nineteen were executed.

Puritans

• Puritans were English Protestants in the 16th-17th century.
• They were dissatisfied with the Church of England because of its toleration of practices associated with the Roman Catholic Church.
• Accusations often targeted individuals who stood out in society, such as the old, young, ill, independent, attractive, or those who defied social norms, due to strict religious rules.
• Puritans believed in God, the devil, and magic, attributing unusual occurrences to supernatural forces, such as spoiled milk, dead animals, a sick child, or general misfortune.
• Close relationships versus conflicts were not a factor; anyone could be accused of witchcraft.
• Disputes between neighbors, too much knowledge, acting strange, simple jealousy, or rumor were all causes.

Witches

• Witches were scapegoats for the community's problems, including famine, diseases, and political instability.
• Eighty percent of victims were female.
• Making a pact with the devil was considered a religious crime.
• Deeply rooted societal prejudices and hostility existed.
• Women were expected to be obedient, humble, and reserved.
• Accusations were a means of controlling women and maintaining male dominance by demonizing them.
• Women were seen as weaker vessels, more susceptible to the devil, and inherently sinful.

Evidence

• There were many types of evidence.
• Spectral evidence was when witnesses claimed that the accused's spirit appeared to harm them or make them sell their soul to the devil.
• A confession determined if someone denied practicing witchcraft, they were often sentenced to death.
• If someone confessed, they could avoid execution but had to implicate others, leading to an escalating cycle of accusations.
• Confession was the best way to stay alive and was a required part of the proceedings.
• Confessions were often obtained under extreme pressure, fear, or coercion, making them highly unreliable.
• Witch marks, such as blemishes, moles, or birthmarks, were believed to be signs of a pact with the devil and proof of guilt.
• Dolls, herbs, and books were considered proof of guilt.

Counter Magic

• Counter magic was done to protect themselves.
• A witch cake was used to protect and discover witches and was made of rye flour and the urine of the afflicted person.
• The cake was then fed to a dog; if the dog exhibited the same symptoms as the ill person, the presence of witchcraft was considered "proven."
• A witch bottle contained pins, needles, and urine, and was boiled.
• Pain for no reason equaled to discovery.
• Symbols were placed on houses.