Salem

Cause of the Salem Witch Trials The 1692 Salem Witch Trials highlight the horrific ramifications of dogmatic Puritanism in 17th century Massachusetts society. The captivating events that culminated in the execution of 20 citizens have been an issue of great intrigue for centuries. While there is disagreement as to the cause of the trials, it is evident that understanding the inducement of that summer?s events is imperative to understanding Puritan society. Evidence suggests that the events of 1692, which likely began as childish play, came to fruition as a result of dogmatism, paranoia, and ensuing political opportunism between the Putnam and Porter families.