They Killed Women, Not Witches: The Salem Trials

In this episode, Stauney and Sadie unravel the dark, chaotic history of the Salem witch trials—one of the most infamous chapters of mass hysteria in history. What began as paranoia and superstition quickly spiraled into widespread persecution, with devastating consequences for the women (and even men) accused. We break down the tangled web of misogyny, racism, and religious extremism that fueled the trials, exploring how societal anxieties and power struggles led to a frenzy of accusations, forced confessions, and executions. Beyond the 17th century, we also examine why Salem’s witch trials remain such a cultural touchstone, from their lasting impact on the perception of women’s power to their eerie parallels with modern-day moral panics. Join us as we dissect the fear, the spectacle, and the lasting legacy of one of history’s greatest injustices—because if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that witch hunts never really go out of style. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices