Salem witch trials

Trials held in Salem , Massachusetts , in 1692 that led to the execution of twenty people for allegedly practicing witchcraft . The trials are noted for the hysterical atmosphere in which they were conducted; many townspeople were widely suspected of witchcraft on flimsy evidence.

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When people are quick to accuse one another of serious misdeeds on inadequate evidence, the situation is often compared to the Salem witch trials.

A “witch hunt” is a political campaign launched under the pretext of investigating activities considered subversive by the state.

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