Religion & Beliefs
What religion strongly influenced the Salem Witch Trials?
Puritanism
Which group was accused of witchcraft the most?
Women
What were the two parts of Salem?
Salem Town and Salem Village
What was canceled, making the government unstable?
The colony’s charter with England
What happened to people’s trust after the trials?
They questioned their justice system
Who did the Puritans believe could tempt people to do evil?
The Devil
Who was the governor who supported the trials?
William Phips
What kind of people lived in Salem Village?
Poor farmers
What did local leaders want more of during the trials?
Power and control
What kind of change did the trials cause in Salem?
Major social change
What kind of “evidence” came from dreams or visions?
Spectral evidence
What could get you accused of witchcraft if you didn’t fit in?
Acting different / Breaking social norms
What did Puritans call the dark forests around Salem?
Satan’s playground
What caused fear and division between Puritan groups?
Religious and political conflicts
How do historians often view the trials now?
Through a feminist lens
What did the Puritans call the woods around Salem?
Satan’s playground
Who else, besides women, were accused of witchcraft?
Men and children
Why were the village farmers jealous of the town?
The town was richer from trade and business
Who used the trials to gain control over the people?
Ministers, judges, and village leaders
How did people feel about extreme religious beliefs after the trials?
They realized they were dangerous
Who were believed to be chosen by God for heaven?
“The elect”
Why do historians view the trials through a feminist lens?
Because most victims were women punished for not fitting gender roles
What made rumors spread quickly in Salem Village?
It was small and isolated
What leader made the panic worse by backing the trials?
Governor William Phips
What lesson did the Salem Witch Trials teach future generations?
Don’t let fear and power control justice