TED-Ed: Brian A. Pavlac: Ugly History: Witch Hunts

The transcript discusses the witch hunts in Europe and America from the late 15th to early 18th centuries. It highlights the cases of Maria Holl and Rebecca Lemp, who were accused of witchcraft. The hunts were sporadic and driven by beliefs in witchcraft, often targeting marginalized individuals. Heinrich Kramer's book, Malleus Maleficarum, fueled these hunts. Despite the lack of evidence, many were tortured and executed. Over time, dissenting voices and stronger legal norms led to the decline of witch hunts, emphasizing the importance of reason and due process.

How did the beliefs about witches and witchcraft spread in Europe?

What role did local governments play in the witch hunts?

What factors contributed to the decline of witch hunting?