Witch Hunt

Explore the fascinating transformation of Christmas traditions in America, revealing how many of our cherished customs emerged more recently than we might imagine. Examine Christmas celebrations in colonial America, where the holiday bore little resemblance to today's family-centered observance. Through court records and historical accounts, we learn how the Puritans banned Christmas in Massachusetts from 1659 to 1681, troubled by its connections to pre-Christian festivals and its often rowdy, carnival-like atmosphere. The narrative threads through several compelling historical cases, including a 1679 incident in Salem Village where four young wassailers - including future Salem Witch Trial figures Samuel Braybrook and Joseph Flint - caused significant disruption during their Christmas celebrations. This event illuminates the complex relationships between holiday revelry, social order, and the later witch trials that would shake colonial New England. Tracing the origins of Christmas customs, hosts Josh and Sarah explore how ancient festivals like Saturnalia and Yule influenced early celebrations, and how Christian leaders strategically absorbed these pre-Christian traditions. Learn how the modern American Christmas largely took shape in the 19th century, with particular attention to the literary creation of Santa Claus by Washington Irving and his circle of writers known as the Knickerbockers. Their work directly influenced Clement Clark Moore's famous poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas," which the hosts perform as a special dramatic reading. The evolution of Christmas trees, gift-giving customs, and holiday decorations receives careful examination, demonstrating how these "timeless" traditions emerged relatively recently as part of a broader transformation of Christmas from a community celebration to a domestic, child-centered holiday.  Throughout the episode, Josh and Sarah weave together scholarly research with engaging storytelling, helping listeners understand how Christmas evolved to reflect changing American values while retaining its power to connect generations through shared celebration. Using primary sources, including court records and period writings, they illuminate how our holiday traditions, though often presented as ancient and unchanging, are dynamic expressions of cultural values that continue to evolve. Find more episodes and resources at witchhuntshow.com. Follow us on social media @WitchHuntShow for updates and additional content. Witch Hunt podcast Remembering the Innocent Victims of the Connecticut Witch Trials The Battle for Christmas: A Cultural History of America's Most Cherished Holiday by Stephen Nissenbaum Christmas: A Candid History by Bruce David Forbes Contribute to End Witch Hunts Sign up for our Newsletter --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

Historian Louis Pulford reveals how a 13th-century religious persecution became the blueprint for centuries of persecution. The Albigensian Crusade (1209-1229) marked the first time the Catholic Church turned its crusading armies inward, targeting the Cathar religious minority in southern France. Pulford, who recently completed his PhD research on firsthand accounts of the crusade, traces how tactics developed during this campaign - from systematic interrogations to public marking of the accused - would later be deployed in witch trials across Europe and colonial America. By understanding how these persecution methods were first developed and refined during the Albigensian Crusade, we gain crucial insight into the mechanics of later witch hunts and how established systems of persecution could be turned against any marginalized group. Join us as we explore this pivotal moment when methods of mass persecution were refined and institutionalized, setting dangerous precedents that would echo through the centuries. Order from Chaos: Reappraising the Historia Albigensis of Peter of les Vaux-de-Cernay by Louis Pulford Importance of Heresy Impact of Heresy United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution 47/8 Study on the situation of the violations and abuses of human rights rooted in harmful practices related to accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks, as well as stigmatization End Witch Hunts Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project Massachusetts Witch-Hunt Justice Project Witch Hunt Website Salem Witch-Hunt Education Project --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

On Human Rights Day, December 10th, marking 76 years since the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we explore one of humanity's ongoing challenges: how differences continue to be met with fear, persecution, and violence. We welcome special guest Muluka-Anne Miti-Drummond, United Nations Independent Expert on the Enjoyment of Human Rights by Persons with Albinism, for a critical discussion that epitomizes Human Rights Day 2024. Her vital work documents how harmful practices and ritual attacks continue to threaten the lives of persons with albinism in Africa and globally, challenging the fundamental principles the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was created to protect. Our conversation examines how beliefs that lead to harm continue to target persons with albinism, particularly women and children. Through the framework of United Nations Resolution 47/8 on accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks, we explore how countries worldwide are developing protective measures while respecting cultural contexts. As we mark International Human Rights Day and its vision of dignity for all people regardless of race, color, religion, abilities, or status, this discussion provides both a sobering look at ongoing human rights challenges and hope through education, awareness, and community engagement. Join this crucial exploration of human rights protection, where harmful practices meet National Action Plans, and learn how global communities are working together to ensure safety and dignity for persons with albinism. #HumanRightsDay #PersonsWithAlbinism #UnitedNations #HumanRights #AlbinismRights Resources: United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution 47/8 Study on the situation of the violations and abuses of human rights rooted in harmful practices related to accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks, as well as stigmatization Papua New Guinea Sorcery and Witchcraft Accusation-Related Violence National Action Plan Pan African Parliament Guidelines for Addressing Accusations of Witchcraft and Ritual Attacks IK Ero On Next Steps For Ending Witch Hunts TINAAWAHP Sierra Leone Association of Persons with Albinism Sierra Leone Association of Persons with Albinism Facebook Page Pro Victimis Medical Assistance Sierra Leone End Witch Hunts Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project Massachusetts Witch-Hunt Justice Project Salem Witch-Hunt Education Project --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

Join us for an exciting collaboration as Witch Hunt meets Witches of Scotland in this special crossover episode. Hosts Josh Hutchinson and Sarah Jack sit down with Zoe Venditozzi and Claire Mitchell to explore the parallel paths of witch trial justice advocacy across the Atlantic. From Connecticut to Scotland, discover how these podcasters are working to right historical wrongs while preventing modern-day witch hunts. Key topics include contrasts between American and Scottish witch trial histories, the unique challenges of tracing witch trial ancestry in different cultures, Dorothy Good's heartbreaking story: imprisoned at age 4 in Salem, current advocacy efforts for exoneration and remembrance, and modern witch hunt phenomena and their global impact. The discussion also features Connecticut's witch trial history and recent exoneration efforts, Scotland's unique legal framework for addressing historical injustices, the challenges of creating memorials in both countries, modern-day witch hunts and their global prevalence, and the role of gender in historical and contemporary witch accusations. ## Resources Mentioned - Petition to clear the names of those convicted of witchcraft in Massachusetts - Connecticut Witch Hunt Exoneration Project - Massachusetts Witch Hunt Justice Project - Witches of Scotland podcast - Scottish Parliament consultation on witch trial pardons --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

Explore the pressing global challenge of modern witch hunts with Kirsty Brimelow KC, one of Britain's leading human rights barristers and incoming vice chair of the Bar Council. Drawing parallels between harmful traditional practices worldwide, Brimelow shares insights from her groundbreaking work developing protection orders and contributing to the 2021 United Nations resolution on witch hunting and ritual attacks. Content Warning: This episode discusses sensitive topics including Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and violence related to witchcraft accusations. Brimelow shares expert insights on developing effective community engagement strategies while respecting cultural sensitivities. She demonstrates how fear and deeply held beliefs can trigger accusations, illustrating her points with compelling examples from her extensive legal career, policy development work, and international case studies. This episode provides essential context for understanding modern witch hunts as a contemporary global human rights issue requiring coordinated international response. Through examining successful interventions against FGM, we explore proven strategies for combating harmful traditional practices through combined legal action and community engagement. Join us for this critical discussion about protecting vulnerable populations and building effective systems for monitoring and preventing witch hunting in the modern world. Key Topics Covered: Religious freedom and harmful traditional practices Comparative analysis of legal approaches to FGM and witchcraft accusations Role of religious leaders in perpetuating or preventing accusations Challenges facing law enforcement in remote communities Connection between disability discrimination and witchcraft allegations Implementation strategies for the 2021 UN resolution Global initiatives targeting elimination of harmful practices by 2030 Kirsty Brimelow KC National FGM Centre United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution 47/8. Elimination of harmful practices related to accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks Pan African Parliament Guidelines for Addressing Accusations of Witchcraft and Ritual Attacks Report of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights: Study on the situation of the violations and abuses of human rights rooted in harmful practices related to accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks, as well as stigmatization World Day Against Witch Hunts End Witch Hunts Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project Massachusetts Witch-Hunt Justice Project Maryland Witches Exoneration Project Witch Hunt Website End Witch Hunts Bookshop --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

In February 1933, while the world was entering the age of radio and automobiles, individuals from the town of Soalhaes, Portugal burned a woman accused of witchcraft. The victim was Arminda de Jesus, a 32-year-old mother of two children, known locally for her kindness and for helping her troubled neighbor. That same neighbor would accuse her of witchcraft, leading to an exorcism ritual that spiraled tragically out of control and ended in Arminda's death. Through meticulous research in Portuguese archives, Dr. Inês Tadeu from the University of Madeira has reconstructed this forgotten case using trial records and newspaper accounts. She joins us to discuss how witchcraft beliefs persisted into the twentieth century, and why some communities still struggle to confront these dark aspects of our humanity. Together, we explore how a simple accusation of witchcraft could end in murder in 1930s Europe, and why Arminda's story remained buried for so long. Department of the Interior National Native American Heritage Month Statement Publications by Inês Tadeu Department of the Interior National Native American Heritage Month Statement End Witch Hunts Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project Massachusetts Witch-Hunt Justice Project Maryland Witches Exoneration Project Witch Hunt Website End Witch Hunts Bookshop Inês Tadeu, “Joana, a Romantic Woman-as-Witch Heroine in the film "O Crime de Aldeia Velha" (1964) by Bernardo Santareno, Manuel de Guimarães and José Carlos Andrade” --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

We step behind Broadway's emerald curtain to explore Wicked with two leading scholars. The University of Kansas' Paul Laird, professor emeritus of musicology, received unprecedented access as Stephen Schwartz composed his blockbuster musical and wrote the definitive book on its making, Wicked: a Musical Biography. His colleague Jane Barnette is a professor of theater & dance and the author of Witch Fulfillment: Adaptation Dramaturgy and Casting the Witch for Stage and Screen. She reveals how the evolving story of Oz has redefined witchcraft in modern theater. In this engaging discussion, we prepare for the film while learning more about the book and musical that changed how we see good, evil, and female power and friendship. Article: KU experts comment on ‘Wicked’ film adaptation Play Episode:Wicked Movie: The Making of a Witch  Wicked Movie: The Making of a Witch explores the nuanced and powerful portrayal of witches in the highly anticipated Wicked movie. Witch Hunt podcast hosts Josh Hutchinson and Sarah Jack delve into their immediate reactions and the deeper social themes conveyed through the film Purchase the Wonderful and Wicked Books of Oz in our Bookstore --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

Wicked Movie: The Making of a Witch explores the nuanced and powerful portrayal of witches in the highly anticipated Wicked movie. Witch Hunt podcast hosts Josh Hutchinson and Sarah Jack delve into their immediate reactions and the deeper social themes conveyed through the film. From the breath-catching spectacle of Galinda's grand entrance to the heartbreaking social justice undertones surrounding Elphaba's journey, this podcast dissects the movie’s profound commentary on othering, power dynamics, and societal hypocrisies. Alongside enthusiastic discussions of standout scenes involving musical numbers, stunts, and emotional turns, Josh and Sarah provide a thorough examination of how the Wicked movie redefines classic witch stereotypes and resonates with contemporary issues. The podcast is an unmissable treat for fans of Wicked, Oz, and beyond, offering a thoughtful and passionate examination of one of the year's most magical films. Visit Witch Hunt --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

We explore the urgent human rights crisis affecting people with albinism in Africa. Expert guest Jay Mohammed Osman Kamara, Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Association of Persons with Albinism (SLAPWA), discusses protecting persons with albinism and the critical significance of UN Resolution 47/8 on eliminating harmful practices related to witchcraft accusations and ritual attacks. Drawing from his experiences and presentation at the Witchcraft and Human Rights Conference, Kamara reveals how deeply-rooted supernatural beliefs fuel deadly misconceptions, discrimination, and ritual attacks against persons with albinism. The conversation examines SLAPWA's grassroots advocacy, community education initiatives, and protection strategies, while highlighting how the climate crisis creates extreme vulnerabilities for the albinism community. Learn about the critical need for enhanced data collection, stronger government protections, and international cooperation in safeguarding persons with albinism. Content warning: This episode contains discussions of discrimination, violence, and suicide. Crisis support resources - United States: call/text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org; United Kingdom: call 111 or text SHOUT to 85258; Canada: call/text 988; Sierra Leone: dial 019. Links to learn more and become a partner email: slapwa.sl@gmail.com Sierra Leone Association of Persons with Albinism Sierra Leone Association of Persons with Albinism Facebook Page End Witch Hunts U. S. Nonprofit Organization Pro VictimisMedical Assistance Sierra Leone This is Lancaster Podcast: Witchcraft Accusation in the Modern World --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

Discover the heartbreaking true story of Goody Glover, an Irish Catholic immigrant who became the last person executed for witchcraft in Boston in 1688. Occurring four years before the infamous Salem Witch Trials began, Glover's case clearly illustrates the injustice of colonial New England's witch hunting history. Standing alone between the 1656 execution of Ann Hibbins and the Salem Witch Trials of 1692-93, Goody Glover's case provides crucial insights into colonial Boston's religious tensions and social dynamics. While Salem would later become synonymous with witch trials, Boston's last execution deserves recognition as a pivotal moment in American religious persecution. This episode is the fourth in Witch Hunt’s Massachusetts Witch Trials 101 series exploring the complex history of witch persecution in colonial New England.  Witch Hunt Podcast Episodes about Witch Trials in Massachusetts Salem Witch Trials Episodes Purchase Button: Massachusetts Witch Hunt Justice Project End Witch Hunts Massachusetts Witch Hunt Justice Project Sign Our Justice Petition Live Event November 16 to Remember Goody Glover, Executed for Witchcraft Nov. 16, 1688 Cotton Mather’s Memorable Providences Cotton Mather’s Magnalia Christi Americana --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

Welcome to Witch Hunt, the investigative podcast exploring modern-day witch hunting in India. In this eye-opening episode, we investigate a critical human rights crisis: the systematic persecution of women through witchcraft accusations. The statistics are haunting: over 2,000 documented witch-hunting murders between 2000-2012—with countless more cases hidden in rural communities. To analyze this intersection of women's rights, criminal justice, and cultural practices, we're joined by leading experts: Rashika Bajaj, a human rights advocate at Jharkhand High Court, and Jaya Verma, an assistant professor specializing in gender law at Jindal Global University. Human rights researcher Dr. Amit Anand provides essential insights on how traditional beliefs and economic inequality fuel these violent practices. Together, we'll examine urgent policy reforms, legal protection measures, and grassroots solutions needed to combat witch-hunting violence. This powerful episode serves as both an exposé and a call to action—through awareness and advocacy, we can challenge harmful practices and protect vulnerable women. Join our investigation into one of India's most pressing yet under-reported human rights issues. You're listening to Witch Hunt. End Witch Hunts Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project Massachusetts Witch-Hunt Justice Project Maryland Witches Exoneration Project Witch Hunt Website United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution 47/8. Elimination of harmful practices related to accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks Advocacy for Alleged Witches, Nigeria The International Network Against Accusations of Witchcraft and Associated Harmful Practices International Alliance to End Witch Hunts IK Ero On Next Steps For Ending Witch Hunts Sierra Leone Association for Persons With Albinism --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

Modern Halloween emerges from diverse cultural and religious traditions, each contributing distinct elements to today's celebrations. From the Celtic festival of Samhain to the Roman Catholic Hallowtide, this episode uncovers the historical threads that connect ancient celebrations to contemporary practices. We examine the influences of Roman festivals like Pomonalia and Lemuria, investigate the connections to England's Guy Fawkes Night, and explore parallels with Mexico's Día de los Muertos. Our discussion reveals how these varied traditions merged to create today's Halloween, with special attention to Salem's emergence as America's Halloween capital. Featuring insights from past guests,  this episode offers a scholarly look at Halloween's evolution while exploring its connections to witch hunts, folklore, and enduring cultural practices. Buy Halloween: From Pagan Ritual to Party Night, by Nicholas Rogers  Join One of Our Projects Support Us! Buy Book Titles Mentioned in this Episode from our Book Shop Witch Hunt Episode: Halloween History and Traditions with Scott Culpepper Witch Hunt Episode: Ain't it a Scary Halloween with Sean and Carrie Witch Hunt Episode: Rachel Christ-Doane on the Salem Witch Museum and the Life of Dorothy Good Witch Hunt Episode: Scottish Witch Trials with Mary W. Craig Witch Hunt Episode: Marion Gibson on Witchcraft a History in 13 Trials Witch Hunt Episode: Malcolm Gaskill on the Ruin of All Witches End Witch Hunts Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project Massachusetts Witch-Hunt Justice Project Maryland Witches Exoneration Project Witch Hunt Website --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

Returning guest Dr. Scott Culpepper, professor at Dordt University, joins us to examine the social phenomenon known as the Satanic Panic of the 1980s and early 1990s. Drawing from his extensive research for his forthcoming scholarly book and his novel, "The Demonologists' Daughters," Dr. Culpepper analyzes how this period of heightened social anxiety developed and influenced American society. We explore the cultural context of this moral panic, examining its effects on institutions from childcare centers to entertainment, while drawing meaningful parallels to witch hunts. Our discussion includes analysis of media influence, law enforcement response, and the intersection with broader social changes of the era. Through careful historical examination, we consider how this period continues to inform our understanding of mass social fears and institutional responses to perceived threats. And we ask the question, are we in a Satanic Panic again? Dr. Culpepper's Blog, The Imaginative Historian Youtube - Connecticut Witch Trials with Dr. Scott Culpepper Dr. Scott Culpepper Professor Profile The Demonologists’ Daughters by K. Scott Culpepper American Tabloid Media and the Satanic Panic, 1970-2000 by Sarah A. Hughes The Exorcist Effect: Horror, Religion, and Demonic Belief by Joseph P. Laycock and Eric Harrelson The International Network Against Accusations of Witchcraft and Associated Harmful Practices Call on the World Health Organization to re-add sunscreen to the list of essential medicines Zoom Event World Day Against Witch Hunts 10th August, 2024 International Alliance to End Witch Hunts IK Ero On Next Steps For Ending Witch Hunts TINAAWAHP Sanguma: Everybody’s Business Justice for Witches, Pardon Campaign End Witch Hunts Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project Massachusetts Witch-Hunt Justice Project Maryland Witches Exoneration ProjectWitch Hunt Website --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

In this episode of "Witch Hunt," guest host Antonio Stuckey explores the life and tragic fate of Alice Parker, a victim of the 1692 Salem witch trials. The podcast delves into Parker's background as a resident of Salem Town and her marriage to a local fisherman. Stuckey discusses the accusations against Parker, her arrest, and the subsequent legal proceedings that led to her conviction. The episode provides insight into the nature of the evidence presented against her and the wider context of suspicions surrounding witchcraft in Salem during that period. Stuckey also touches on the aftermath of Parker's trial and execution, including her eventual exoneration centuries later. Through Alice Parker's story, listeners gain a compelling glimpse into the fear, suspicion, and injustice that characterized the Salem witch trials, as well as efforts in recent times to memorialize and honor its victims. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

Explore one of Europe's most notorious witch hunts - the Basque Witch Trials in France and Spain - with historian Jan Machielsen, author of the new release "The Basque Witch Hunt: A Secret History." We uncover the complex factors behind the trials, including the role of sex-obsessed judge Pierre de Lancre. Machielsen shares the unique Basque Sabbath descriptions and the controversial use of child witnesses, revealing how approximately 100 victims fell prey to these trials. Learn how witch hunt fears persisted and transformed within communities, and draw striking parallels between historical witch hunts and modern witch persecutions. Join us for an eye-opening exploration of the Basque country's rich history. JanMachielsen.com Buy: The Basque Witch Hunt: A Secret History by Jan Machielsen Buy: The Science of Demons: Early Modern Authors Facing Witchcraft and the Devil, Edited by Jan Machielsen Buy:The War on Witchcraft: Andrew Dickson White, George Lincoln Burr, and the Origins of Witchcraft Historiography by Jan Machielsen The International Network Against Accusations of Witchcraft and Associated Harmful Practices Call on the World Health Organization to re-add sunscreen to the list of essential medicines Zoom Event World Day Against Witch Hunts 10th August, 2024 International Alliance to End Witch Hunts IK Ero On Next Steps For Ending Witch Hunts TINAAWAHP Sanguma: Everybody’s Business Justice for Witches, Pardon Campaign End Witch Hunts Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project Massachusetts Witch-Hunt Justice Project Maryland Witches Exoneration ProjectWitch Hunt Website --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

In this episode, we explore the life and tragic fate of Martha Cory, one of the victims of the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. Learn about: - Martha's background and the mysteries surrounding her early life - The events that led to her accusation of witchcraft - Her experiences during the trials - The surprising role her husband played in her story - Martha's ultimate fate and legacy Join us as we uncover the story of this "gospel woman" caught in the hysteria of one of America's most infamous historical events. Discover how Martha Cory's tale sheds light on the complexities of life, faith, and justice in colonial New England. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

Join Sarah and Josh as they talk about their recent experiences at two dynamic UK conferences focused on witchcraft and human rights. In this fun and reflective episode, our hosts share the insights gained from the York CREMS Magic and Witchcraft Conference 2024 and the Lancaster "Witchcraft and Human Rights: Past, Present, Future" conference, which centered on the implementation of United Nations Resolution 47/8. Learn about the presentations Sarah and Josh delivered for their nonprofit, End Witch Hunts, including  talks on the Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project, the End Spiritual and Ritual Abuse (SARA) data collection project, and the World Without Witch Hunts Project. Our hosts share about the fascinating research and presentations of the other experts in the field, which offered experienced perspectives on both historical and contemporary issues surrounding witchcraft accusations. Get up to speed on the current status of implementing Resolution 47/8, which addresses human rights violations related to witchcraft accusations and ritual attacks. This episode showcases how these conferences bring together a diverse group of historians, human rights advocates, legal experts, and social scientists in a collaborative effort to combat ongoing witchcraft-related human rights abuses. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a human rights advocate, or simply curious about this often-overlooked global issue, this first hand report promises to broaden your understanding of the intersection between history, human rights, and modern efforts to end witch hunts worldwide. Buy America Bewitched Book by Owen Davies Wolfgang Behringer, Witches and Witch Hunts: A Global History United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution 47/8. Elimination of harmful practices related to accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks   Papua New Guinea Sorcery and Witchcraft Accusation-Related Violence National Action Plan Pan African Parliament Guidelines for Addressing Accusations of Witchcraft and Ritual Attacks Report of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights: Study on the situation of the violations and abuses of human rights rooted in harmful practices related to accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks, as well as stigmatization Donate to Our UK Conference Trip to speak and learn about ending witch hunts End Witch Hunts Advocacy for Alleged Witches, Nigeria The International Network Against Accusations of Witchcraft and Associated Harmful Practices Zoom Event World Day Against Witch Hunts 10th August, 2024. International Alliance to End Witch Hunts IK Ero On Next Steps For Ending Witch Hunts TINAAWAHP Sanguma: Everybody’s Business Justice for Witches, Pardon Campaign End Witch Hunts Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project Massachusetts Witch-Hunt Justice Project Maryland Witches Exoneration Project Witch Hunt Website --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

Fresh from the release of his book The Witch of Pungo: Grace Sherwood in Virginia, historian Scott O. Moore joins us to uncover the true story behind colonial Virginia's only witch trial. In 1706, Grace Sherwood faced an unusual trial by water—but what really happened, and why does it still captivate us today? Moore examines both the legend and reality of Grace Sherwood, showing how local tensions transformed neighborhood conflict into a witch trial. Learn how this singular case differed from the infamous Salem trials, and why Virginia Beach continues to grapple with Sherwood's legacy three centuries later. From ducking stools to modern-day memorials, this episode challenges what we think we know about witch trials in America, revealing how historical memory shapes—and sometimes distorts—our understanding of the past and present. Purchase the book The Witch of Pungo: Grace Sherwood in Virginia Eastern history professor publishes book on legendary Virginia ‘witch’ End Witch Hunts Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project Massachusetts Witch-Hunt Justice Project Maryland Witches Exoneration Project Purchase the book The Witch of Pungo: Grace Sherwood In Virginia Author's Corner with Scott O. MooreWitch Hunt Website --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

In this gripping episode of Salem Witch Hunt 101, we delve into the pivotal period of March 8-24, 1692, when the Salem witch trials reached a fever pitch. We explore the dramatic escalation of accusations and arrests that rocked Salem Village, including the unexpected cases of respected community members Martha Cory and Rebecca Nurse, as well as the shocking arrest of 4-year-old Dorothy Good. The episode begins with the election of new selectmen and constables in Salem, setting the stage for the tumultuous events to come. We then chronicle the return of former Salem Village minister Deodat Lawson and his influential sermon that further inflamed tensions. Listeners will hear detailed accounts of the examinations of Martha Cory and Rebecca Nurse, providing chilling insight into the judicial proceedings of the time. Throughout the episode, we discuss the growing role of spectral evidence in the trials and how it shaped the accusations and outcomes. Key moments include Martha Cory's passionate declaration of innocence, Rebecca Nurse's heartbreaking plea, and the community's reaction to the arrest of young Dorothy Good. The episode concludes with an update on End Witch Hunts' recent activities and a preview of upcoming content. This episode offers a comprehensive look at a crucial turning point in the Salem witch trials, demonstrating how quickly suspicion and fear can escalate into a full-blown crisis. Whether you're a history buff, a legal scholar, or simply curious about this dark chapter in American history, this episode provides valuable insights and compelling storytelling. Learn More: Emerson W. Baker, A Storm of Witchcraft: The Salem Trials and the American Experience Mary Beth Norton, In the Devil's Snare: The Salem Witchcraft Crisis of 1692 Bernard Rosenthal, editor, Records of the Salem Witch-Hunt Marilynne K. Roach, The Salem Witch Trials: A Day-By-Day Chronicle of a Community Under Siege Marilynne K. Roach, Six Women of Salem: The Untold Story of the Accused and Their Accusers in the Salem Witch Trials Stacy Schiff, The Witches: Suspicion, Betrayal, and Hysteria in 1692 Salem End Witch Hunts Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project Massachusetts Witch-Hunt Justice Project Maryland Witches Exoneration Project  Witch Hunt Website Salem Witch-Hunt Education Project The Salem Witch-Hunt Saga: Beginnings The Ultimate Introduction to the Salem Witch Trials: Salem Witch-Hunt 101 Part 1 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

We’re joined by Antonio Infante, a Salem Witch Trials Historic Tour Guide and author. Antonio shares his journey into becoming a guide, sparked by a personal connection to the Salem witch trials through his ancestor. As he highlights the importance of accurate storytelling, Antonio offers a snapshot look at the Essex National Heritage Area’s historic tour that dispels myths about the trials. This episode also explores broader Massachusetts witch trial history and ongoing efforts for justice for all those wrongfully accused, not just the accused in 1692. He gives us a glimpse into his upcoming book about accused witch Sarah Cloyce, sister of Rebecca Nurse, titled Sober and Civil: Being a true narrative of one Sarah Towne Cloyse, formerly Bridges. Links Donate to Our UK Conference Trip GoFundMe Campaign to speak and learn about ending witch hunts End Witch Hunts Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project Massachusetts Witch-Hunt Justice Project Maryland Witches Exoneration Project Witch Hunt Website Salem Witch-Hunt Education Project --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support