Publisher's Synopsis
Exploring the history of witchcraft in the United States, this book starts with the witch-hunts during the Colonial Period and ends with the modern day followers of Wicca. Chapters present stories of accused witches in American colonies before 1692 and the events leading up to the Salem witch trials, including the tragic aftermath. Chapters include full text or excerpts from trial transcripts, diary entries, public notices and many other primary sources, including "Malleus Maleficarum"; testimony of Ann Putnam, Sr. against Martha Corey and Rebecca Nurse; the diary of Samuel Sewall; and Carl L. Weschke, "Principles of Wiccan Belief". Biographical essays highlight prominent figures related to the Salem witch trials, including Rachel Clinton, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Rebecca Towne Nurse and many others.
