Amendmants
In the Constitution we can see rights that were affected by the Salem Witch
Trials, evidence for the fact that the drafters of the Constitution were
perfectly aware of what would happen if people did not have certain legal
rights. Most of the rights that are related to the Salem Witch Trials deal
with in the fifth and sixth amendment. The Fifth Amendment gives us rights such
as, grand jury, double jeopardy, self-incrimination, and due process, while the
sixth amendment gives us rights like jury trial, right to confront and to
counsel. (“Bill of Rights”)
In those two amendments there are some important points that were influenced
by the Salem Witch Trials. One of the things the Fifth Amendment tells us
is, “nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against
himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property,” This is on the premise
with the right that nobody has to provide a self-incriminating testimony against
himself. In the witch trials self-incriminating questions were asked and they
had to be answered. Also during the witch trials they had no defense, but as
specified by the Bill of Rights, “and to have the assistance of counsel for his
defense.” This specifies that everybody must have a right to defend themselves;
however, this right was denied during the witch trials. (“Bill of Rights”)
During the Salem Witch Trials people were questioned by a jury that already
thought they were guilty and asked questions that would make them seem guilty.
This is dealt with in the Bill of rights too where it says, “In all criminal
prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by
an impartial jury.” (“Bill of Rights”)
Conclusion
In conclusion the Salem Witch Trials influenced America for centuries after
the event. The Salem witch trials helped us to make the transition between supernatural
and rational thought. The events that occured during the salem witch trials aslo affeced our constitution, which allows certain rights that were seriously lacking in the trials, including the right to a speedy and public trial, to defend oneself against accusations, and to not be forced to provide a self-incriminating testimony.
the event. The Salem witch trials helped us to make the transition between supernatural
and rational thought. The events that occured during the salem witch trials aslo affeced our constitution, which allows certain rights that were seriously lacking in the trials, including the right to a speedy and public trial, to defend oneself against accusations, and to not be forced to provide a self-incriminating testimony.