BP3: Reasons for the Ending of the Witch Hunt

What did Increase Mather publish in September 1692?

• Cases of Conscience Concerning Evil Spirits Persecuting Men

• used his knowledge of scripture and history to argue that genuine cases of witchcraft were rare, and much of the evidence used in trials was dubious

What did Increase Mather criticise in his sermons?

spectral evidence

What happened after Increases book and sermons?

Because he had such a wide following and was well-respected godly Puritans began to heed his warnings - the number accusations slowed down dramatically

How else did Increase help in the end of the hunts?

had discussions w/ influential people like Phips - who was governor

Role of Governor Phips?

• first he supported the craze, creating the Court of Oyer and Terminer

• he appointed Stoughton who was unrelenting in his pursuit of witches

• his relationship w/ Increase changed his view - demonstrated by his attempt to pardon Rebecca Nurse

• closed Court of Oyer and Terminer 26th October 1692

Fate of Tituba?

HER LIFE WAS SPARED //BUT// she was sold again as a slave GOD DAMN GIVE HER A BREAK

When did Phips issue a general pardon, and how many people did it save from execution?

1693, 8 people

What was established in January 1693?

Superior Court of Judicature

Why did Stoughton stop participating in the trials?

Had not changed his views of witches but was under immense political pressure and Phips ordered him to discount spectral evidence

Sudden rush to find defendants innocent 1693?

• first 5 prisoners after the initial wave found not guilty

• three more pardoned after having death warrants signed

• May 1693 5 more found not guilty

Phips’ letter 1693?

• to King William

• criticised Stoughton for allowing the craze to develop so extensively

• defended himself saying he set up the court under pressure from religious leaders in Boston

What law was repealed in 1695?

A law passed by the Massachusetts legislature in 1692 that enables swift prosecutions for witchcraft

What happened in January 1697?

Samuel Seawall, a judge involved, officially apologised to Massachusetts and asked for forgiveness

When was compensation paid to the families of the victims?

1711