Witch Hunt

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

A critical issue still impacting children in parts of Sub-Saharan Africa is the ongoing crisis of witchcraft accusations. Carolyn Gent, a lawyer and chair of the Stop Child Witch Accusations Coalition, has dedicated her career to community development that prioritizes the safeguarding of children from these harmful accusations and the violence that often accompanies them. Carolyn shares her coalition’s innovative efforts to combat child witch accusations through education, community engagement, and faith-based initiatives. Listeners will gain insight into the root causes of these accusations, including poverty, fear, and misconceptions about child development, and learn about the coalition’s work to train church leaders and community members to foster safer, more compassionate environments. Key points discussed include the development of the “Heart of the Matter” training resource, the role of media in perpetuating harmful beliefs, and the importance of international collaboration in addressing witch hunts globally. Carolyn’s experience offers hope, demonstrating how education and compassion can transform communities and protect vulnerable children. www.stop-cwa.org Case Study, Synergies: Contagion of Positive Action 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 WebsiteSalem Witch-Hunt Education Project