A series of hearings and prosecutions of people accused of witchcraft in colonial Massachusetts between February 1692 and May 1693. These events, infamous for their atmosphere of mass hysteria and injustice, resulted in the executions of twenty individuals, most of whom were women. The term references a specific historical episode within the larger context of early American history often studied in Advanced Placement United States History.
The historical episode is important in understanding the complexities of early American society, including religious beliefs, social tensions, and the impact of political instability. Furthermore, the events showcase the dangers of mass hysteria, the fragility of due process, and the consequences of unchecked power. Analyzing the motivations of accusers and accused provides insight into the roles of gender, class, and reputation in shaping colonial life.
