Theocracy
What is a theocracy?
A theocracy is a form of government in which religious leaders rule or where the country’s laws are based directly on religious beliefs. In a theocracy, religion and government are connected.
How was Bridget Bishop different, and why is that a problem for Puritans?
Followed her own rules
Wore flashy clothing
Spoke confidently to men
Didn’t dress in a conservative manner
What are Poppets?
It's a doll that could cast spells on people, and it helps the town accuse Bridget of being a witch
What was one cause of King Philip's War?
Lost land
Colonists made Indians drunk and manipulated them
Didn't believe the testimony of the Indians in court
Spoiling their corn due to a lack of fences for cattle/horses
What was King Philip’s War?
This war was the most destructive conflict in early American history, killing 5% of New England’s population and devastating Native American communities, with 40% killed or forced to flee.
How does a theocratic government impact the Puritans in Salem, Massachusetts?
Religious leaders had political power
Laws were based on Puritan beliefs
Church attendance was required
Witchcraft was considered both a sin and a crime
Fear of disobeying God contributed to accusations during the Salem Witch Trials
What is hidden in the cellar wall of Bridget’s home? Why is this important?
Poppets
It's a doll that could cast spells on people, and it helps the town accuse Bridget of being a witch
Helps witches hurt others
It helped the town believe Brudget is a witch
Why are they significant to the Salem Witch Trials?
It was used as evidence in court
What was one cause of the war from the colonists' perspective?
Christianized the Indians, forcing them to observe their laws
It was King Philip's fault
Training the Indians to use guns
God's punishment for not going to the town meeting
What were the effects of King Philip's War on Native Americans?
After this war, many Native Americans were killed, forced to flee their lands, or sold into slavery by colonists.
How can a theocratic government be a uniting force for people?
People share the same religious beliefs and values
Laws reflect common moral principles
Can create a strong sense of identity and community
What is the new danger threatening the community? Explain
Wampanoags- Native Americans who attacked the colonists
How were poppets used as evidence to accuse individuals of witchcraft?
During the Salem Witch Trials, people believed poppets could be used to cast spells or harm others.
When a poppet was found in someone’s home, especially if it had pins stuck into it, accusers claimed it was proof the person was practicing witchcraft
What is King Philip's real name?
Metacomet ( Chief)
What happened to the Native Americans as a result of the war?
40% Indian population killed/fled the region
Indians, broken-scattered communities, sold into slavery, servants to the colonists
What are modern-day theocracies? name two
Iran
Vatican City- the pope is the religious leader
Afghanistan
Yemen
Saudi Arabia
Mauritania
What is a “specter” and how is it used to accuse Bridget of being a witch?
Specter- ghost/spirit
Bridget’s specter bewitched children
Bridget’s specter (her spirit) is attacking or hurting them
From his point of view, this leader believed the war was caused by land loss, unfair court systems, manipulation through alcohol, and colonists’ livestock destroying Native crops.
Who was Metacomet (King Philip)?
How does King Philip's War connect to the fear and hysteria of the Salem Witch Trials?
It was a sign of God's displeasure
Fear of American Indians and the devil turned to hysteria
Terrorized by war resembling an American Indian
What does Theo and cracy mean?
Theo-God
Cracy-rule
What is England’s Witchcraft Act of 1604?
A witch who commits a minor offense could be in prison for a year, but if you have another offense, you could be killed
Colonists forced Native Americans to convert to this religion and follow English laws, which increased tension before the war began.
What was Christianity?
What percentage of colonists died as a result of the war?
5% New England population was killed