Final answer:
The witchcraft accusations in Salem began in 1692 when a group of young girls claimed to be possessed by witches. The accusations led to trials, executions, and imprisonments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The witchcraft accusations in Salem began in 1692 during a time of social and religious turmoil. A group of young girls claimed to be possessed by witches and accused several individuals in the community of practicing witchcraft. These accusations led to a series of trials, resulting in the execution of 20 people and the imprisonment of many others.
The accusations started when Betty Parris and Abigail Williams, two of Reverend Samuel Parris' daughters, began showing strange behavior. They claimed to see and interact with invisible spirits who were tormenting them. As the town became increasingly anxious, several others, mostly young girls, also began experiencing similar symptoms.
In their testimonies, the accusers identified specific individuals whom they claimed were witches. The accusations targeted those who were seen as outcasts or had conflicts with members of the community. The authorities held trials to determine the guilt or innocence of the accused, employing methods like spectral evidence, where the accusers claimed to have seen the accused in the form of a specter or apparition participating in witchcraft.
Learn more about Witchcraft accusations in Salem