Today we will explore visually the Salem Witch Trials. We will watch a short documentary first, and them move on to a longer one--perhaps giving you choice. As you watch, and no matter which you watch, be sure you can answer the following:
What aspects of herd behavior or group think is present with the accusers?
Why was Salem not a happy place at the time of the witch hunts? In other words, what grievances, anger, factions were present in Salem?
Who were the accusers?
Who were the accused?
How were the factions religionized? In other words, how were conflicts painted or simplified in religious terms?
Why would an accused confess if they were not guilty?
Ironically, what would happen to the accused if they confessed?
How many people were accused? How many were killed?
Witch Trials Getting Started: This video is great to begin with! The Salem Witch Trials
The Salem Witch Trials Explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNig6dkvb4s
Salem Witch Trial Documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ddKfab3exg (56 min)
Documentary #2: 11 Myths About The Salem Witch Trails: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSWyevQzEF8 (11 min)
The Salem Witch Trials: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUeoEUNgCzA (7:35)
