Emerson W. Baker
@emersonwbaker.bsky.social
History prof @Salem State, author of A Storm of Witchcraft & The Devil of Great Island, early American public history, 17th C. archaeology and material culture.
Yes, we know today that the crisis was starting to end, but at the time there were still over 100 people in prison for the capital crime of witchcraft, and everyone tried so far had been convicted. Indeed, two more would die in jail before the last victim was found not guilty and freed in May 1693.
October 27, 2025 at 11:38 PM
Yes, we know today that the crisis was starting to end, but at the time there were still over 100 people in prison for the capital crime of witchcraft, and everyone tried so far had been convicted. Indeed, two more would die in jail before the last victim was found not guilty and freed in May 1693.
I think the problem was that by September 1692 , a majority of people in Salem realized something was seriously wrong with the trials, and that innocent lives were being lost. But in an atmosphere where anyone could be accused with potentially lethal consequences, it was very hard to speak up.
September 22, 2025 at 9:44 PM
I think the problem was that by September 1692 , a majority of people in Salem realized something was seriously wrong with the trials, and that innocent lives were being lost. But in an atmosphere where anyone could be accused with potentially lethal consequences, it was very hard to speak up.