Question

What personal goals did thomas putnam have in accusing others of witchcraft?

Answer 1

Thomas Putnam's role at the beginning of the legal processes has been frequently perceived as important to the growth of the witchcraft crisis in Salem in 1692. Putnam has the immense influence on the trials which has not been widely acknowledged. Putnam was the father of Ann Putnam Jr, the most prolific prosecutor in the whole proceedings.

Putnam’s importance is commonly perceived in the fact that he, accompanied by other adults, presented his daughter’s allegations legal weight in first seeking credentials against the accused witches in February 1692.

Through his work, he drafted the allegations of many of the "afflicted" girls in Salem village. He was one of the important advocates of the trials and attempted to exert authority on the proceedings as one of the most wealthy citizens and influential church members in Salem Village.

Answer 2

He wanted to get revenge against his rivals and enemies for his own wealth, he would accuse them of witchcraft then buy their land.

Thomas Putman was the Father of Ann Putnam who accused the most people of Witchcraft. Thomas shaped the trials by backing up his daughters accusations, seeking warrants against the accused. He used the witch trials to increase his own wealth by accusing people of witchcraft then buying up their land.