About Punishments for Witches in Salem

In the 17th century, New England was gripped by a fear of witches and acts of witchcraft. Women were identified as witches for a variety of reasons, most of which centered around odd or antisocial behavior or the accusations of townspeople, usually little girls, who are thought to have made false accusations. Many of the accused were convicted of being witches during a period known as the Salem witchcraft trials, and were often punished by death.

History

In the summer of 1692, courts in Massachusetts tried 29 people who were accused of being witches. Both women and men were convicted of being witches, which was considered a capital offense and was, therefore, punishable by death. Ultimately, 14 women and five men were hanged by the gallows. One man was crushed to death by the weight of a heavy stone after he refused to enter a plea.

Significance

Hanging was a common form of capital punishment in the 17th century, both in America and abroad. Many of these hangings were done publicly. Often most of the townspeople would come out to see the spectacle, making hangings similar to social gatherings.

Time Frame

The Salem witchcraft trials began in February 1692 and ended in May 1693. Aside from those who were met with capital punishment, more than 150 others were imprisoned and accused of being witches. The hangings happened between June and September 1692, lasting four months. In 1711, a bill was passed to restore the good names or reputations of those who were accused, punished and hanged because they were thought to be witches. Amends were made in the form of restitution to their families.

Geography

The Salem witchcraft trials occurred in 17th century New England, in Massachusetts specifically. Salem used to be split into two sections, Salem Town and Salem Village, which were located in Essex County.

Misconceptions

Contrary to popular belief, the Salem witchcraft trials did not occur solely in Salem. The term actually refers to a series of accusations and hearings that took place in courts throughout Essex, Middlesex and Suffolk counties. Preliminary hearings were conducted in Salem Town, Salem Village, Ipswich and Andover. By far, the most widely publicized hearings took place in Salem Town, which is the location from which most of our historical information on the trials derives.

Resources

• Famous American Trials: Salem Witchcraft Trials