Salem, a Town of Fears by David Lee

Puritans

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Community of devout Calvinists fleeing persecution from Europe. They believed in a strict patriarchal society and in pre-destination (original sin). The Puritans contended with harsh winters, hostile natives, and constant infighting within the United States. The Puritans were not known for their tolerance but rather their intolerance and strong suspicion of each other. The Puritans also believed the devil and his minions were constantly attacking them.

Tituba

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The slave of minister Samuel Parris. Tituba taught the girls "magic" and the girls soon fell sick afterwards. When accused of being witches, the girls passed the blame to Tituba. Tituba was placed at a disadvantageous situation, as no one would believe her for she was a slave. Tituba would admit to witchcraft, but suggested their were other witches in the community.

Spectral Evidence

99058847_2 — 2024-11-15 22:11:51 UTC

Spectral Evidence was finding the defendant guilty of witchcraft based on the witnesses claims "spirits attacked them." These spirits would only be visible to the witness. Despite the inability to confirm spectral evidence, the system was used to convict many innocent individuals. To make it seem convincing the accusers would act out as if they were being attacked every time the defendant so much as moved. Spectral Evidence was eventually prohibited.

Betty Parris and the Girls

99058847_2 — 2024-11-15 22:18:27 UTC

Betty Parris as well as other girls were Puritan children who accused others of witchcraft. Through the use of the communities fears and spectral evidence, the girls sent hundreds of innocent men and women to the gallows. It is though initially, the girls accused Tituba out of fear of persecution. However, as time passed, the girls killed more and more people for personal amusement. Puritan children at the time were to be "seen and not heard."

Calvinism

99058847_2 — 2024-11-15 22:23:26 UTC

Calvinism is a branch of Protestant theology based on the ideas of John Calvin. Calvinism believes in total depravity, that all humans are inherently sinful and unable to choose God without divine intervention. Calvinists believe in pre-destination, where God predestines individuals before birth. The doctrine of irresistible grace suggests that when God calls someone to salvation, they cannot resist His will and will have a spiritual experience. Calvinism was extremely unpopular in Europe.