However, a new scientific study may have identified the real cause behind the infamous events in Massachusetts that led to the trial of more than 200 people and the execution of 19 by hanging over 300 years ago.
The study points to the invention of the printing press in the 15th century as a crucial factor. By greatly increasing the spread of information, the press helped disseminate books on “demonology,” which fueled fear of witchcraft.
One such book, Malleus Maleficarum (or “The Hammer of
Evildoers”), portrayed witchcraft as a sinister conspiracy against pious
society, in contrast to earlier views of witches as isolated village
figures or ignorant peasants....<<<Read More>>>...