Salem Witch Trials
Who was accused?
More than 200 people in Salem Massachusetts were accused of being a witch and 20 were executed with 7 more dying in prison.
What was the evidence?
There was little to no legitimate evidence, with the trials based mostly off of dreams, "visions" and general feelings that people were a witch.
When and where did this happen?
The Salem Witch Trials happened in Salem Massachusetts between the years of 1692 and 1693 (17th century)
How were people executed?
Gallows were most common in Salem, but in other places, death by fire or drowning was not uncommon. One may was recorded to be "pressed to death" with heavy stones.
What did the economy have to do with this?
A fungus which commonly grown on rye in warm dark places may have been consumed, which causes muscle spasms and hallucinations. This theory is backed up by the fact that one of the main food sources of food in Salem was rye, especially in spring and summer months.