The Salem Witch Trials was a mass-hysteria event that started in February 1692 to May 1693 in Salem, Massachusetts. However, many historians have argued that it first took place some time in the spring. It all started when a group of young girls were diagnosed with "strange behavior" by a doctor-- and the only doctor-- in Salem. These girls showed signs of hallucinations, jolting movements, and occasional screaming and tantrums, as the doctor proved that it was all due to "supernatural causes." After the diagnosis of those girls, they were taken to court soon after for a testimony of their behavior but was eventually proved not guilty. People began to see others acting in strange manners in a span of a few months, saying that these people have been controlled by the devil. As these people continued to be condemned for witchcraft, the population of Salem decreased due for a crime that was perceived punishable by death. 

As you move into this collection, you will be able to note the artifacts, and the people involved in the Salem Witch Trials. For each item in the collection, it will explain how these items influenced how the Puritans saw witches as people who sided with the devil, and how much they want to keep their land as pure, or holy as possible.