Similarities Between Salem Witch Trials And Mccarthyism

Words: 536
Pages: 3

The Salem witch trials and the damage caused by McCarthyism were two horrific events that affected many innocent people. Each instance were a fabrication created by mass hysteria and ignorance. Both events occurred in different periods of human history, yet the similarities and differences between the two indicate that humanity doesn't always learn from it's mistakes. It is in everyone interest that humanity refrains from repeating the events that took place in both instances as the consequences of either event were detrimental.
Unlike what occurred in 1950, the Salem witch trials were the result of the mischief caused by a few young girls. These girls were causing havoc in Salem by utilizing the fear their lies produced to gain advantageous power. A great number people affected lost their lives and countless others lost loved ones. In addition, some citizens fulled the fire as they saw this incident as an opportunity to seek revenge for previous property disputes and conflicts with full compliance from the justice system. It would seem very unlikely for a similar incident occurring again in history but sadly
…show more content…
McCarthy antagonized many innocent citizens by accusing them of being communists while Abigail, citizens, and other young girls accused Salem's community of being witches. These accusers had to no basis for such suspicions and only treated these innocent citizens unjustly for personal gain. In both scenarios people were put on trial for their allegations although there were no proof of any crime. Strangely, those accused were considered guilty by default and there was no possibility to support you defense even if you had solid evidence. McCarthyism and Salem's with trials came to an end when respected members were accused, and at that point many started to doubt the validity of the