Salem Witch Trials

In the year of 1962, nearly 20 men and women were suspected of witchcraft and sentenced to death. Initially, one woman developed a disease that is said to involve symptoms including fever, vomiting, skin irritation, and even hallucinations. Though the exact disease responsible for these adverse side effects is unproven, it was obviously contagious enough to inflict many more. Locals eventually considered the possibility of witchcraft, and thus evolved the Salem Witch Trials.

Apparently, other teenage girls were diagnosed with a similar complex shortly after. Other less fortunate, less popular locals were likewise unresisting the strange, malevolent powers present. Even the village's former minister was incapable of redemption as omens and superstitions evolved into reality and convictions were exceeding priority in small territories bordering the Salem, Massachusetts region. Supposedly, the town of Salem was suppressed by a combination of negative occurrences and desired a scapegoat to blame for the societal concerns. For one, war among the frontier between Native Indians and Europeans was constantly engaged. This inevitably afflicted trouble on the economic state of Salem; interweaved with turmoil among prominent figures of the town. Debate regarding who should assume authority and control over the province was constantly argued, as two clans competed for the title. Salem courts tried conspirators and verdicts emerged guilty, whether truly innocent or not.

Locals eventually contemplated the decisions expressed by the courts and demanded to comprehend the meaning behind such tragic events. The question in concern was as to why individuals of reputable stature were conveyed as suspects, and being judged guilty of witchcraft and demonic possessions. Finally, the upper classes decided to put an end to the reign of witchery, and the event concluded almost immediately. Though the trials lasted only a few months, it ended with 19 death sentences, 4 deaths served in prison and 1 tortured until death did he part. Over 100 more were accused and arrested. The opposing sides accompanied such: accused supported that of the former minister, and the accusers being the individuals who previously forced him to leave town.

Famous American Trails (2009). Salem Witch Trails. Retrieved Nov 18, 2009 from http://www.law.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/ftrials/salem/salem.htm