What were the puritan's view on witchcraft?

Answer 1

Puritans viewed witchcraft as a serious crime and a direct challenge to their religious beliefs and societal order. They believed that witches made pacts with the devil and that their actions could cause harm to others, making witchcraft a threat to the community. This belief led to fervent witch hunts, notably in places like Salem, where accusations often stemmed from fear, superstition, and social tensions. As a result, many individuals, predominantly women, were tried and executed during these tumultuous periods.