The Thing About Witch Hunts

Why does a 72-year-old play about 300-year-old witch trials still feel urgently relevant today? Arthur Miller's The Crucible has become theater's ultimate evergreen story, because it captures something timeless and terrifying about human nature—our willingness to destroy each other when fear takes hold. When Miller's play premiered on January 10, 1953, audiences immediately understood it wasn't really about Salem. This was Miller's bold response to McCarthyism, a thinly veiled critique of Senator Joseph McCarthy's communist witch hunts that were tearing through American society. Miller had taken the Salem witch trials and transformed them into a mirror, forcing 1950s America to confront its own capacity for panic and persecution. But here's what makes The Crucible truly remarkable: it didn't stop being relevant when McCarthyism ended. In our current era, when we're so quick to label people as enemies and deny their humanity, Miller's allegory feels more essential than ever. The play's central question—what happens when a community turns against itself in search of hidden enemies—remains one of the most important questions we can ask. Whether you know the play from school, the stage, or the screen, whether you have family who lived through the Red Scare or ancestors who witnessed Salem's trials, The Crucible speaks to something universal about the human condition. It reminds us that in times of crisis, we all face the same choice: Will we stand with the mob, or will we find the courage to stand for justice? Buy the book: The Red Scare by Clay Risen Buy the Play: The Crucible by Arthur Miller Buy the book: The Enemy Within by John Demos Help Us Build Our Patreon Community⁠ ⁠The Thing About Witch Hunts Website The Thing About Salem Website Check out our new podcast: The Thing About Salem on YouTube!⁠ ⁠Sign up for our Newsletter⁠ ⁠Donate to The Thing About Witch Hunts Fieldwork Fund

Join Josh and Sarah as they explore one of Scotland's most notorious witch trials - the Paisley Witch Trials of 1697 (also known as the Bargarran or Renfrewshire Witch Trials). This case represents a major witch hunt and mass execution in late 17th century Europe, where seven people lost their lives in Paisley after being accused by eleven-year-old Christian Shaw. What You'll Learn: • How eleven-year-old Christian Shaw's accusations against 35 people spiraled into Scotland's last major witch hunt • The story behind the seven executions that took place in Paisley on June 10, 1697 • How fear and superstition transformed a Scottish community into a site of tragedy • The connection between the Paisley trials and other witch hunts across Europe and America • Insights from someone who has walked the very streets where these events unfolded The Seven Executed on June 10, 1697: • Margaret Lang • John Lindsay • James Lindsay • John Lindsay of Barloch • Katherine Campbell • Margaret Fulton • Agnes Naismith Our guest, Gayle Pollock, brings a unique perspective to this dark history. Gayle doesn't just study these events - she lives and breathes them. Walking the same streets where the accusations were made and lives were lost has given her an intimate understanding of how this tragedy actually unfolded. Her immersion in the landscape and the story provides insights you simply can't get from books alone. As we remember the accused in Paisley in 1697 and honor Bridget Bishop, who was hanged in Salem on June 10, 1692, we're reminded of the importance of questioning fear and superstition wherever it may lead. Don't forget to check out this week's episode of The Thing About Salem podcast, and join us next time as we continue to examine the dark corners of history. #WitchTrials #ScottishHistory #PaisleyWitches #RenfrewshireWitches #SalemWitchTrials #HistoryPodcast Help Us Build Our Patreon Community ⁠The Thing About Witch Hunts Website The Thing About Salem Website Check out our new podcast: The Thing About Salem on YouTube! Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to The Thing About Witch Hunts Fieldwork Fund

Hosts Josh and Sarah welcome back author Beth Caruso to discuss Alice Young, New England's first documented witch trial victim, executed in Hartford, Connecticut in 1647. Beth shares her groundbreaking research that led to Alice's official exoneration by the Connecticut legislature in May 2023, after centuries of her story being nearly lost to history. The conversation explores how Beth pieced together Alice's life through limited historical records, neighborhood land documents, and epidemiological patterns from a 1647 flu outbreak that may have contributed to the accusations against her. They discuss Alice's lasting legacy through her descendants, connections to broader New England witch trial history, and what still needs to be done to honor her memory through exhibits and memorials. Episode Highlights: • Alice Young's Story - New England's first documented alleged witch hanging, executed in Connecticut in 1647 (June 5th by modern calendar) • Historic Exoneration - Connecticut's bipartisan legislative vote in May 2023 officially cleared Alice Young's name after centuries • Research Challenges - How limited historical records have been pieced together to share Alice's life • The 1647 Flu Epidemic - How neighborhood deaths and epidemiological patterns may have led to Alice's accusation • Historical Connections - Links between Alice Young's case and broader New England witch trial history, including connections to the Mather family • Governor Winthrop Jr.'s Role - His alchemical views and connections to people in Alice Young's life • Alice's Legacy - Her descendants and lasting impact on Connecticut heritage and colonial history • Ongoing Memorial Efforts - What still needs to be done through exhibits, memorials, and continued awareness • Beth's Work - Her Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project, CT Witch Memorial Facebook page, and Connecticut Witch Trials Trilogy • Podcast Promotion - Launch announcement for "The Thing About Salem" podcast and its first episode about TitubaBuy the book One of Windsor by Beth Caruso Author Beth Caruso's Website Article: Between God and Satan by Katherine A. Hermes; Beth M. Caruso Buy the book: Prospero's America: John Winthrop, Jr., Alchemy, and the Creation of New England Culture, 1606-1676 by Walter W. Woodward ConnecticutWitchTrials.org CT W.I.T.C.H. Memorial https://www.facebook.com/ctwitchmemorial Help Us Build Our New Patreon Community for The Thing About Salem Podcast Check out our new podcast Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund Support Us! Buy Book Titles Mentioned in this Episode from our Book Shop

Welcome back to the Witch Hunt Podcast. This is the final episode in the four part series: The Evolution of Diabolical Witchcraft Belief. If you're just joining us, we recommend checking out the previous series episodes first, though this episode can certainly stand on its own. This completes our Evolution of Diabolical Witchcraft conversation with Professor Richard Raiswell of the University of Prince Edward Island, expert on Devil lore. In Part 1, we began examining the critical relationship that developed between demons and witchcraft specifically in the 15th century. In Part 2, we delved deeper into how this connection became the driving force behind the witch hunts that devastated communities across Europe. In parts 3 and 4 we reveal shocking and informing details on the Malleus Maleficarum and its authors Heinrich Kramer, aka Institoris, and Jacob Sprenger. Thank you for joining us as we conclude this chilling and fascinating exploration of how demonology fueled witch persecution. ⁠⁠NEW PODCAST: The Thing About Salem⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Check out our new podcast, The Thing About Salem, on YouTube!⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Help Us Build Our New Patreon Community for The Thing About Salem Podcast⁠⁠ ⁠Richard Raiswell⁠ ⁠Shop our Nonprofit Bookshop for: The Routledge History of the Devil in the Western Tradition⁠ ⁠Purchase the Malleus Maleficarum: The Hammer of Witches, translated by Christopher S. MacKay ⁠ ⁠Build Your Witch Trial History Library with a Purchase from our Bookshop!⁠ ⁠End Witch Hunts U. S. Nonprofit Organization⁠ ⁠Sign up for our Newsletter⁠ ⁠Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund

Today we conclude our series: The Evolution of Diabolical Witchcraft Belief with Professor Raiswell of the University of Prince Edward Island, an expert in medieval devil lore, with another double episode release. If you're just joining us, we recommend checking out the previous series episodes first, though this episode can certainly stand on its own. In this episode, part 3 of the series, Dr. Raiswell takes us into the minds and lives of Heinrich Kramer, aka Institoris, and Jacob Sprenger, the authors of the 15th century witch-hunting book, the Hammer of Witches, formally known as the Malleus Maleficarum. This Dr. Raiswell series is essential for understanding how theological concepts about Satan evolved into specific witchcraft accusations and largely gendered persecution mechanisms that still influence witch hunting today. The full series, in four parts, is available now wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠NEW PODCAST: The Thing About Salem ⁠⁠Check out our new podcast, The Thing About Salem, on YouTube!⁠⁠ ⁠Help Us Build Our New Patreon Community for The Thing About Salem Podcast⁠ Richard Raiswell Shop our Nonprofit Bookshop for: The Routledge History of the Devil in the Western Tradition Purchase the Malleus Maleficarum: The Hammer of Witches, translated by Christopher S. MacKay Build Your Witch Trial History Library with a Purchase from our Bookshop! End Witch Hunts U. S. Nonprofit Organization Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund

Welcome back to the Witch Hunt Podcast. This is episode 2 in the The Evolution of Diabolical Witchcraft Belief. If you're just joining us, we recommend checking out Part 1 first, though this episode can certainly stand on its own. This marks the continuation of our conversation with Professor Richard Raiswell of the University of Prince Edward Island, who previously joined us for our fascinating "Speak of the Devil" episode where we explored Satan as one of history's most enduring and complex figures. In Part 1 of we began examining the critical relationship that developed between demons and witchcraft specifically in the 15th century. Now in Part 2, we'll delve deeper into how this connection became the driving force behind the witch hunts that devastated communities across Europe. Professor Raiswell continues to guide us through how theological concepts about Satan evolved into specific accusations and persecution mechanisms. His expertise in medieval devil lore brings clarity to one of history's darkest chapters. Remember, both parts of this special episode are available now wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for joining us as we continue this chilling and fascinating exploration of how demonology fueled witch persecution. Both Part 1 and Part 2 are available now wherever you get your podcasts. Go to Part 1 Richard Raiswell Shop our Nonprofit Bookshop for: The Routledge History of the Devil in the Western Tradition Purchase the Malleus Maleficarum: The Hammer of Witches, translated by Christopher S. MacKay Help Us Build Our New Patreon Community for The Thing About Salem Podcast Check out our new podcast: The Thing About Salem on youtube! NEW PODCAST: The Thing About Salem Build Your Witch Trial History Library with a Purchase from our Bookshop! End Witch Hunts U. S. Nonprofit Organization Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund

We have a special treat for our listeners this week - not one but two new episodes dropping simultaneously! Today marks the return of Professor Richard Raiswell of the University of Prince Edward Island, who previously joined us for our fascinating "Speak of the Devil" episode where we explored Satan as one of history's most enduring and complex figures. In this two-part special The Evolution of Diabolical Witchcraft Belief Professor Raiswell takes us deeper into the dark intersection where demonology meets witch persecution. We'll explore the critical relationship that developed between demons and witchcraft specifically in the 15th century - a connection that would become the driving force behind the witch hunts. If you enjoyed our previous exploration of devil lore, these episodes are essential listening, as Professor Raiswell helps us understand how theological concepts about Satan evolved into specific accusations and persecution mechanisms. Both Part 1 and Part 2 are available now wherever you get your podcasts. Richard Raiswell Shop our Nonprofit Bookshop for: The Routledge History of the Devil in the Western Tradition Purchase the Malleus Maleficarum: The Hammer of Witches, translated by Christopher S. MacKay Help Us Build Our New Patreon Community for The Thing About Salem Podcast Check out our new podcast: The Thing About Salem on youtube! NEW PODCAST: The Thing About Salem Build Your Witch Trial History Library with a Purchase from our Bookshop! End Witch Hunts U. S. Nonprofit Organization Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund

Are you curious about the Salem Witch Trials? Fascinated? Intrigued? Maybe even fully obsessed? Josh and Sarah from Witch Hunt podcast bring you The Thing About Salem, a podcast dedicated to uncovering all things about the Salem Witch Trials. Each week, in 15 minutes or less, we go through all the feels as we share a story and a discussion. Together, we will cry, rage, and even laugh a little about some of the silliness, like the witch cake baked with the urine of the afflicted girls. Early topics include Tituba, The Crucible, poppets, the witches' sabbath, and witch marks. In future episodes, we will peel back all the layers of the witch trials.Visit us at aboutsalem.com

In his return to Witch Hunt Podcast, Antonio Stuckey joins hosts Josh Hutchinson and Sarah Jack to discuss his research and book "Sober and Civil," chronicling the remarkable life of Salem witch trials survivor Sarah Cloyse. As the younger sister of executed victims Rebecca Nurse and Mary Esty, Sarah Cloyse's nine-month imprisonment represents a powerful chapter in Massachusetts witch trial history—one with personal significance to both hosts, who count her among their ancestors. Antonio shares how his focused research through court documents and historical records revealed the multidimensional woman behind the accusation—the same figure who inspired the PBS miniseries "Three Sovereigns for Sarah." The conversation explores Sarah's defining act of defiance when she walked out of church slamming the door behind her, her complex first marriage to the dispute-prone Edmund Bridges, and her second husband Peter Cloyse's unwavering loyalty during her imprisonment. Help Us Build Our New Patreon Community for The Thing About Salem Podcast Check out our new podcast NEW PODCAST: The Thing About Salem Build Your Witch Trial History Library with a Purchase from our Bookshop! End Witch Hunts U. S. Nonprofit Organization Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund

Anthropologist Dr. Nora Groce from University College London discusses the troubling connection between disability and witchcraft accusations. Dr. Groce shares her research on why people with disabilities are targeted, including her study on the experience of persons with albinism in East Africa. We explore how traditional beliefs create stigma, discuss the global disability rights movement, and examine community-based solutions to protect vulnerable populations. This conversation will inform you on lesser-understood human rights issues related to witchcraft accusations worldwide. Buy Book: Everyone Here Spoke Sign Language: Hereditary Deafness on Martha's Vineyard Co-Authored by Nora Groce Disability & Inclusion Network Africa Prof. Nora Groce on World Disability Day CRIP CAMP Trailer Check out our new podcast End Witch Hunts U. S. Nonprofit Organization Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund

Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of explicit sexual content related to historical witchcraft allegations. In this scholarly episode of Witch Hunt Podcast, hosts Josh Hutchinson and Sarah Jack welcome historian Dr. Michael Ostling to examine one of witchcraft history's most persistent legends: the hallucinogenic flying ointment. Dr. Ostling carefully separates historical evidence from modern misconceptions, revealing how contemporary interpretations often reflect our own misogynistic projections rather than the experiences of those accused of witchcraft. Through thoughtful analysis, this episode respects the memory of innocent victims while providing listeners with a deeper understanding of how witchcraft myths evolve and persist across centuries. This conversation challenges popular assumptions and offers valuable historical context on this fascinating yet frequently misunderstood aspect of witch hunt history. Michael Ostling's Research Buy: Fairies, Demons, and Nature Spirits 'Small Gods' at the Margins of Christendom, edited by Michael Ostling Buy: Emotions in the History of Witchcraft, co-edited by Michael Ostling Buy: Between the Devil and the Host Imagining Witchcraft in Early Modern Poland, by Michael Ostling Check out our new podcast: The Thing About Salem on youtube! End Witch Hunts U. S. Nonprofit Organization Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund

In this powerful episode, Josh and Sarah welcome Peter Ogik, Executive Director of Source of the Nile Union of Persons with Albinism in Uganda, who shares his personal story and advocacy work. About our guest: Peter Ogik was born and raised on an island in Lake Victoria, Uganda. As the first person with albinism in his community of about 600 people, Peter faced discrimination from birth but was fortunate to have supportive parents who advocated for him, especially in school settings where he initially struggled due to bullying and visual impairments associated with albinism. Key topics discussed: Personal experiences with discrimination: Peter shares how he was called "a thing" rather than a person, and how children were told not to sit near him because of harmful myths. Educational challenges: Teachers initially placed Peter at the back of the classroom despite his visual impairments until his father intervened, leading to improved academic performance. Dangerous misconceptions: Peter survived three kidnapping attempts by those seeking to harvest his body parts for witchcraft, based on the false belief that they bring wealth. Health challenges: Persons with albinism face high risks of skin cancer, with over 90% dying before age 30 without proper protection and care. Women and girls with albinism: They face additional challenges, including sexual violence based on the myth that intercourse with a woman with albinism can cure HIV/AIDS. Advocacy work: Through his organization, Peter works to: Educate communities and change harmful perceptions Provide mobile skin clinics and sun protection Train teachers to better support students with albinism Advocate for policy changes like tax exemptions on sunscreen Signs of progress: Peter notes how community attitudes are changing, with more persons with albinism now graduating as doctors, lawyers, engineers, and other professionals. International Albinism Awareness Day: This UN-recognized day (celebrated since 2015) has become a powerful platform for education and policy influence in Uganda. Resources mentioned: Source of the Nile Union of Persons with Albinism (SNUPA) Advantage Africa, a partner organization since 2013 This episode highlights how education and advocacy can combat deadly superstitions and improve lives for marginalized groups. Peter's message is one of resilience and hope: "I can't wait to see the tomorrow whereby a person will not define me by my appearance, but will define me by my abilities." Source of the Nile Union of Persons with Albinism Advantage Africa International Albinism Awareness Day Facebook Page End Witch Hunts U. S. Nonprofit Organization Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund

Discover the once-overlooked story of Elizabeth Johnson Jr., the Salem witch trial victim finally exonerated after 330 years. At just 22, this young Andover woman was pressured into falsely confessing to witchcraft in 1692. She narrowly escaped execution when Governor Phips ended the Salem witch trials. However, she was unjustly left out of the 1711 mass exoneration that cleared many others' names. Our guest, podcast regular Mary Bingham, reveals Elizabeth's remarkable life through court records and family histories, including reading us the powerful petition for clemency submitted by Elizabeth at age 42. Learn why this case, with a personal connection to our host Joshua Hutchinson, resonates with justice movements today and how Elizabeth's name was finally cleared in 2022. Mary Louise Bingham on Youtube: Sarah Wildes 1692 Online Event Presenting Mary Louise Bingham on Dorothy Faulkner and the Forging of Two Families April 26, 2025 Live from the Rebecca Nurse Homestead End Witch Hunts U. S. Nonprofit Organization Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund

En el episodio de esta semana del podcast Witch Hunt, Josh y Sarah traducen al inglés cuando el invitado habla en español. Disfruten de esta nueva experiencia como nosotros. Damos la bienvenida a la fotógrafa documental y cineasta española Judith Prat. Con formación en derecho de los derechos humanos, Judith examina con contundencia la persecución de las mujeres acusadas de brujería en los Pirineos durante la Edad Moderna. Judith habla de su documental "Decian Que Era Bruja", que rinde homenaje a las mujeres inocentes víctimas de la caza de brujas en España. También comparte reflexiones sobre su exposición fotográfica "Brujas" y el fotolibro que la acompaña, con 67 impactantes imágenes que documentan los paisajes de los Pirineos y las mujeres que los habitan hoy. A través de su obra, Judith desafía la imagen estereotipada de las "brujas" como viejas brujas, revelando la verdad sobre las mujeres comunes que fueron perseguidas injustamente. Acompáñenos en esta fascinante conversación sobre la memoria, la justicia y la recuperación de narrativas históricas a través del arte. Judithprat.com Article:Dénia reflects on femicide with the documentary 'They said she was a witch' by Judith Prat Purchase Judith Prat's Photo Book: Brujas Listen to episode: Secrets of the Basque Witch Hunt with Jan Machielsen End Witch Hunts U. S. Nonprofit Organization Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund

In this week's episode of Witch Hunt podcast, Josh and Sarah translate to English when the guest speaks in Spanish. Please enjoy this new experience like we have.. We welcome Spanish documentary photographer and filmmaker Judith Prat. With a background in human rights law, Judith powerfully examines the persecution of women accused of witchcraft in the Pyrenees during the early modern period. Judith discusses her documentary film "Decían Que Era Bruja" (They Said She Was a Witch), which pays tribute to the innocent women targeted during the witch hunts in Spain. She also shares insights about her photography exhibition "Brujas" and accompanying photobook featuring 67 striking images that document the landscapes of the Pyrenees and the women who inhabit them today. Through her work, Judith challenges the stereotypical portrayal of "witches" as old hags, revealing instead the truth about ordinary women who were unjustly persecuted. Join us for this fascinating conversation about memory, justice, and reclaiming historical narratives through art. Judithprat.com Article:Dénia reflects on femicide with the documentary 'They said she was a witch' by Judith Prat Purchase Judith Prat's Photo Book: Brujas Listen to episode:Secrets of the Basque Witch Hunt with Jan Machielsen End Witch Hunts U. S. Nonprofit Organization Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund

In this powerful episode, we explore the discrimination faced by persons with albinism across Africa through conversations with two remarkable advocates from the Sierra Leone Association of Persons with Albinism (SLAPWA). Join us as we welcome back Jay Kamara, a familiar voice to our listeners, alongside Daniella Garrick, a model, youth leader, and advocate who is representing Sierra Leone in the upcoming Miss Albinism Africa pageant in June 2025. Our guests share how marginalized communities can transform visibility from a source of vulnerability into a platform for challenging misconceptions. Through initiatives like the Miss Albinism Africa pageant, they demonstrate how advocacy can operate effectively for communities that have faced persistent discrimination. This episode offers valuable insights into: The specific support needed by persons with albinism in Sierra Leone How pageantry becomes an unexpected vehicle for profound human rights advocacy Ways you can participate in these important advocacy efforts How to support: The Sierra Leone Association of Persons with Albinism is seeking support for Daniella's travel, accommodation, and competition expenses for the Miss Albinism Africa pageant. Learn more at albinismsierraleone.org or visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/slapwa17. Witch Hunt is dedicated to helping you learn about others' experiences and providing meaningful opportunities to take action. Join us for this transformative conversation. email: slapwa.sl@gmail.com Sierra Leone Association of Persons with Albinism Sierra Leone Association of Persons with Albinism Facebook Page End Witch Hunts U. S. Nonprofit Organization Pro Victimis Medical Assistance Sierra Leone Sign up for our Newsletter

In this compelling episode, we welcome back returning guest Dr. Govind Kelkar. Building on her previous insights about women's experiences in India, Dr. Kelkar shares her recent groundbreaking research across eight northeastern Indian states, examining the complex interplay between traditional beliefs and modern pressures. Dr. Kelkar's fieldwork reveals how patriarchal systems have intensified within these communities, fueling the devaluation of women and perpetuating the dangerous practice of witch branding. Her research uncovers unexpected connections between economic development initiatives, efforts at cultural preservation, and gender-based violence. Listeners will gain deep insights into how evolved capitalist economic structures have transformed traditional gender dynamics in these regions, creating new vulnerabilities for women. We discuss the formidable challenges facing activists working to create safer spaces, and explore how feminist movements can effectively address witchcraft accusations while honoring indigenous rights and cultural autonomy. This episode offers a straightforward look at the intersection of gender, power, and belief systems, essential listening for anyone seeking to understand the persistence of witch hunts in our modern world. Research Documents and Books by Govind Kelkar Contribute to End Witch Hunts Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund The International Alliance to End Witch Hunts

A cornerstone message of our Witch Hunt podcast and End Witch Hunts nonprofit centers on community-based advocacy paired with holistic intervention programs. Experts are illustrating that sustainable change requires coordinated efforts that empower local communities while addressing the complex root causes that perpetuate these harmful practices across the Americas. This final episode in our Podcasthon series examines unique manifestations of witch hunts throughout North, Central, and South America - from colonial Salem to contemporary accusations in rural communities. We explore how historical contexts and cultural dynamics have shaped these phenomena differently across the hemisphere, while identifying common patterns and effective intervention strategies. We encourage our listeners to catch the full series to gain comprehensive understanding of this global issue. By connecting the dots between episodes, you'll discover how lessons learned in one region can inform approaches elsewhere, creating a powerful framework for lasting change." Key Topics Covered Witch Hunt podcast Contribute to End Witch Hunts Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund Podcasthon 2025 Witch Hunt Episode Playlist Goody Glover of Boston Episode The Salem Witch Trials Episodes Massachusetts Witch Trials Episodes Connecticut Witch Trials Episodes Podcasthon.org Boris Gershman Witch Hunt Podcast Episode Witchcraft Beliefs Around the World: An Exploratory Analysis BorisGershman.com The International Network The International Alliance to End Witch Hunts

Our Ending Witch Hunts Podcasthon series now turns to Europe, home to history's most notorious stories on witch trials. Hosts Sarah and Josh talk about witch persecutions across England, Scotland, Ireland, Italy, Germany, France, and Portugal, while touching on a surprising truth: these aren't just historical events. The episode connects Europe's witch trial past with present-day manifestations, including physically harming exorcisms, spiritual abuse and ritual abuse cases in the UK and US. With research showing the prevalence of belief in harmful witchcraft, we demonstrate how witch hunt dynamics continue to target vulnerable populations in Western societies. Join us as we uncover another chapter in the witch hunt story - the uncomfortable reality that these persecutions didn't end with history—they merely transformed. By understanding Europe's legacy and its continuing narrative, we gain crucial insights into addressing these harmful phenomena today. Podcasthon 2025 Witch Hunt Episode Playlist European Witch Hunt Podcast Episodes! Witch Hunt podcast Contribute to End Witch Hunts Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund Podcasthon.org Boris Gershman Witch Hunt Podcast Episode Witchcraft Beliefs Around the World: An Exploratory Analysis BorisGershman.com The International Network The International Alliance to End Witch Hunts Advocacy for Alleged Witches, Nigeria

In this episode for Podcasthon 2025, we welcome Holly Bamford, a History PhD candidate at Liverpool University who researches late medieval and early modern witchcraft and superstition. Holly examines the historical context of witch hunts through detailed case studies.We met Holly at the Magic and Witchcraft conference in York 2024, one of many academic events that help us connect with experts in the field of witch trial history and contemporary witch hunt research.The conversation covers the 1674 Hinchcliffe case, where neighbors petitioned courts defending the accused family's innocence, and the 1601 Trevisard case featuring twelve neighbors who approached a magistrate to accuse an entire family of witchcraft.This episode is part of our contribution to Podcasthon 2025, where 1,500 podcasters are using their platforms from March 15-21 to highlight causes important to them. Our featured nonprofit is End Witch Hunts, which can be found along with other charities at podcasthon.org.Renaissance Society of America -Boston 2025 Witch Hunt podcast Contribute to End Witch Hunts Sign up for our Newsletter Donate to Witch Hunt Podcast Conference Fund Podcasthon.org Boris Gershman Witch Hunt Podcast Episode Witchcraft Beliefs Around the World: An Exploratory Analysis The International Network The International Alliance to End Witch Hunts