Salem Witch Trials
In Salem Village, Massachusettes, during the late 1600's, people were accused of possessing supernatural powers given to them by the Devil. "Belief in the supernatural--and specifically in the devil's practice of giving certain humans (witches) the power to harm others in return for their loyalty." ("Salem Witch Trials"). Although Everyone was accused of witchcraft, more woman than men were believed to hold this evil power. People who were accused of practicing witchcraft were put to death or imprisoned after an unfair trial. "Five more people were hanged that July; five in August and eight more in September. In addition, seven other accused witches died in jail, while the elderly Giles Corey (Martha's husband) was pressed to death by stones after he refused to enter a plea at his arraignment." ("Salem Witch Trials"). Morning and sorrow lingered throughout this town. Over 150 men, woman, and children were accused over several months. Often young girls accused vulnerable and weak older woman of being a witch to In 1962, two young girls, Abigail Williams and Elizabeth Parris, experienced contortions and uncontrollable screaming. "After a local doctor, William Griggs, diagnosed bewitchment, other young girls in the community began to exhibit similar symptoms, including Ann Putnam Jr., Mercy Lewis, Elizabeth Hubbard, Mary Walcott and Mary Warren." ("Salem Witch Trials"). After that, more girls and woman started having the same breakdowns as Elizabeth and Abigail. A magezine article explains the cause of these dramatic outbursts. "In an effort to explain by scientific means the strange afflictions suffered by those "bewitched" Salem residents in 1692, a study published in Science magazine in 1976 cited the fungus ergot (found in rye, wheat and other cereals), which toxicologists say can cause symptoms such as delusions, vomiting and muscle spasms." ("Salem Witch Trials").
In 1693, imprisoned people were set free by the pardon of May Phips. The effects of the Salem Witch trials would last for generations.The horrible trials were dramatized in Arthur Miller's play "The Crucible".
In 1693, imprisoned people were set free by the pardon of May Phips. The effects of the Salem Witch trials would last for generations.The horrible trials were dramatized in Arthur Miller's play "The Crucible".