Question

Soseph

Viewing Guide: Smithsonian Channel - America's Hidden Stories: Salem's Secrets
Period
Introduction: "America's Hidden Stories: Salem's Secrets" is a documentary that provides a deeper look into the
Salem witch trials, a significant event in American history.
Mr. Latham
While Watching.
1. Historical Context (0:00-10:00).
What were the main factors contributing to the fear and hysteria surrounding witcheraft in colonial
Salem?
●
●
What were the prevailing religious beliefs and practices in colonial Salem, and how did they influence the
perception of witchcraft?
What was the political climate in the Massachusetts Bay Colony during the time of the triks? Did it
have an impact on the accusations and trials?
2. Key Figures (10:00- 25:00):
Who are the central figures in the Salem witch trials? What roles did they play, and how did their actions
impact the unfolding events?
Who were some of the notable accusers, and what motivated them to accuse others of witchcraft?
● Can
you identify any individuals who were both accusers and later accused of Witchcraft? What might

Answer 1

The fear and hysteria surrounding witchcraft in colonial Salem were influenced by beliefs in the supernatural, prevailing religious beliefs, and the political climate. Puritans strongly believed in witches and the devil's influence, which led to the accusation of innocent individuals. The strict Puritan leadership in Massachusetts Bay Colony intensified the focus on religious conformity and the elimination of perceived threats.

Step-by-step explanation:

The main factors contributing to the fear and hysteria surrounding witchcraft in colonial Salem were the existing beliefs in the supernatural and the presence of societal tensions. Puritans in colonial Salem strongly believed in the existence of witches and the devil's influence. They viewed any unusual or unexplained occurrences as potentially witchcraft-related, which heightened the fear and paranoia in the community.

The prevailing religious beliefs in colonial Salem were Puritanism, which shaped the perception of witchcraft. Puritans believed that witches made a pact with the devil and used their supernatural powers to harm others. This fueled the belief in witchcraft and led to the widespread accusation of innocent individuals.

The political climate in the Massachusetts Bay Colony during the time of the trials also had an impact on the accusations and trials. The colony was governed by a strict Puritan leadership, which intensified the focus on enforcing religious conformity and eradicating any perceived threats to the community. The trials provided an opportunity for the leaders to demonstrate their commitment to maintaining order and purity in the colony.

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