How the Historic Persecution of Witches Led to the Infamous Salem Witchcraft Trials Long before the bloody horrors that took place during the Salem witch trials, those accused of witchcraft often found themselves strapped to a burning stake or caught in the hangman’s noose.   Ireland 1324. The bishop of Ossory, Richard Ledrede, condemns his diocese as a hotbed of devil worshippers. At the centre … Continue reading How The Historic Persecution of Witches Led to The Infamous Salem Witchcraft Trials