The Real Witch Trials In 1692, the town of Salem was gripped by fear. A group of young girls claimed to be afflicted by witches, and their accusations spiraled into one of the most infamous episodes of mass hysteria in American history. Over 200 people were accused of witchcraft. Nineteen were hanged. One man was pressed to death with stones. The trials were fueled by fear, superstition, and a strict Puritan belief system that saw the Devil lurking behind every misfortune. People believed witches could: Curse crops or livestock with a glance, Fly through the night on broomsticks or with the help of familiars, Cause illness or bad luck through…