Puritans

2 Pages 564 Words

The earliest form of Puritan political correctness has greatly influenced the progression of American society. Past events have the ability to affect the reputation of the area in which they occurred throughout history. Distinguished events may become a model for future peoples. Notorious events may leave a stigma on the area. A region such as Nazi Germany is remembered today for the abhorrent Holocaust that took place there many years ago. As Germany is remembered for a certain event in the past, the Salem witch-hunt has left a dark mark in New England’s history. Paul Johnson, a historian, wrote an article for The Spectator on Puritan New England and the Salem witch-hunt. I both qualify and refute many of his ideas throughout the article.
New England Puritans were led by their god to live humbly and dress modestly. They enforced their ideals in all aspects of life. Puritan society was very strict. Education was very important to those who wanted to preserve their central values. Religion was most important to the Puritans because they believed that God governed all. As Johnson states, the Salem witch-hunt was unnecessary. It is “the quintessential event of New England history”. It will forever be remembered that the witch-hunt took place there. Many innocent men and women were killed due to false accusations of witchcraft and communicating with the devil. Johnson believes that although it has been made public and discussed in politics for many years, it still remains peculiar to the region. I agree that many view the occurrence differently. Both ends of the “political spectrum” have different opinions. Some, as does Paul Johnson, believe that it was a horrible, needless event, and others believe that it can be justified in some ways. Today, there are also those who believe that it can be overlooked. I agree with Johnson’s statement that all will agree that it was excessive, irrational, pious, and moralistic. The Salem w...