What was life like in Salem, Massachusetts in 1692?
In 1692, life in Salem,Massachusetts was very different from other areas. During this time, Salem was part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony which means it was under British control. The lack of a speedy system of communication with other towns and a nearby wilderness at it's borders isolated the colonies and affected activities and attitudes in the town. In Massachusetts, most people were puritans, who's lifestyle was restrained and very religious. Puritans believed strongly in the devil and witchcraft which was amplified to a whole new level due to the isolation of the colony. Salem, in 1692, was a very divided city. It was divided into two parts, Salem Village and Salem Town. The separation of these areas played a large role in the development of the Salem Witch Trials. Most of the accused people lived near Ipswich Road which was the road that separated these two areas. Most of the accusers, however, lived near Salem Village. Salem Village was populated mainly by poor farmers who cultivated their crops on the rocky terrain. Salem Town, in contrast, Salem Town was a busy town trade center populated mostly by wealthy merchants. The jealousy and tension between these two areas was a driving force in the awful allegations that ensued during the Salem Witch Trials. The Puritan faith requires a simple lifestyle therefore the activities in Salem were very laid back and relaxing like farming or worshiping. Life in Salem, Massachusetts contributed greatly to the rise of the Salem Witch Trials.