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The ideas of witches, warlocks, and wizards often bring to mind the Salem witch trials, European inquisitions, and the burning of accused witches. However, like many historical events, these concepts are surrounded by numerous misconceptions. In this exploration, we focus on debunking one specific myth.
The myth: A majority of those accused of witchcraft were executed by being burned at the stake.
If a man seduces an unbetrothed virgin and lies with her, he must provide her with a dowry and take her as his wife. Should her father refuse to give her to him, he must pay the customary dowry for virgins. Wizards thou shalt not suffer to live. Anyone who engages in relations with an animal shall face death. Those who sacrifice to other gods shall be put to death, except when offering to the Lord. — Exodus 22:16-20
The Middle Ages are often imagined as a period of darkness illuminated only by the faint glow of burning pyres—symbolizing the frequent witch burnings. However, the truth is far more nuanced. Among the many myths about this era, we will focus specifically on the witch hunts.
Contrary to popular belief, the number of witches executed during the peak of the witch hunts—spanning three centuries—was around 40,000 globally, not hundreds of thousands. Very few of these executions involved burning. For instance, in Britain between 1440 and 1650, only three women were burned at the stake, and just two of them were burned alive.
Hanging was the most common method of execution for witchcraft in both Europe and the United States, a practice that remains the most widely used form of execution today. Another misconception is that only women were targeted. In reality, at least 25% of those accused and executed were men, often referred to as warlocks.
Surprisingly, securing a conviction for witchcraft was quite challenging. The accuser had to provide substantial proof of being bewitched, and juries were often hesitant to convict. Over 75% of witch trials ended in acquittal. The practice of witch hunts and the death penalty for witchcraft were widely opposed by the general public, including judges. It was the fervor of a few individuals that allowed these practices to persist for so long.
Fascinating Fact: The Witchcraft Act in the United Kingdom remained in effect until 1951. The final individual imprisoned in England for witchcraft was Jane Rebecca Yorke in 1944. Interestingly, the Witchcraft Act is still applicable in Israel, whose legal framework is derived from the UK system.
Mytour: Top 10 Common Historical Myths Mytour: Top 10 Shameful Events in American History Google WDYL: Salem Witch Trials Wikipedia: Witchcraft Acts Wikipedia: Salem Witch Trials Wikipedia: Witch Hunt National Geographic: Salem: Witchcraft Hysteria
