Salem Witchcraft Trials and Puritans.

Puritans were unhappy with the ways of the Church of England. They basically went away from it so they could practice their own beliefs and ways. They were led by John Calvin and known as Clavinists. They did, however, believe that the bible was "God's true law".

(The picture shown on the left is of John Calvin). Google images: http://www.wabashunion.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/john-calvin.jpg

They were a very religious group of people as shown in the picture as they are in prayer. Google Images: http://endtimepilgrim.org/puritans.jpg

In Salem, Massachusetts in 1962 the Salem Witchcraft Trials were held. Back then if those who believed in witchcraft were to be hung. Also, I do believe that any one who is accused is to be "killed". They would tie the accused up and go out on a boat. There they would throw them over. If the accused came back up they were a witch, and if not, they were dead. If they were to be a witch then they would be hung anyway. So either way if one was to be accused that would be the end for them. Google images: http://i.ehow.com/images/GlobalPhoto/Articles/4571041/66434-main_Full.jpgThe trials were actually a series of trials to find out if the accused were rightfully accused. Those who were accused were puritans and one Indian slave. Over 150 were arrested and put in prison. And with that also, 29 more were convicted of witchcraft. 19 of those 29 were hung. Another person who was involved in these trials was Giles Corey. He was crushed to death with stones laid on his chest. Stones were laid on his chest for two days until he finally died. One really significant fact would be that any man, woman, or child could accuse any one of witchcraft (this would in the end obviously lead to their death). This could have resulted in many murders without that accuser having killed him by his own hand even.Google Images: http://www.moonbattery.com/salem-witch-hanging.jpg
http://www.salemweb.com/guide/images/cemetery.jpg
http://ushistoryimages.com/images/salem-witch-trials/fullsize/salem-witch-trials-5.jpg