What Are The Causes Of The Salem Witch Trials In 1692

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In January 1692 in the city of Salem, Massachusetts a mass hysteria broke out. Eight girls began showing signs of a strange and unknown illness, with symptoms of delirium, impaired speech, convulsions, and screaming. The villagers wanted an explanation, so the doctor diagnosed the girls with bewitchment. Soon, accusations were being thrown out left and right. This lead to over 150 citizens accused of witchcraft, then sent to jail. A total of 20 people were hanged due to these allegations, along with 5 others who died in custody. Ever since, people have wondered what could have caused the terrible disaster of the Salem Witch Trials in 1692, thankfully a likely cause has been found. The probable reason for the madness epidemic in Salem is ergot

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