WHY IS THIS MOMENT IN HISTORY IMPORTANT?

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  1. The Lancaster Witch Trials were well documented, assisting historians with their exploration of societal views and perceptions in Britain during the 1600’s.
  2. A comparison of different time-periods can be made (knowledge on topics like mental heath and medicinal practices adapt over time)  this allows historians to better understand societal gaps and developments during the 17th century.
  3. Historians can develop a better understanding of early development of court systems with use of this topic and can track current changes and adaptations relevant to the 21st century.
  4. Overall, there are endless areas of interest for a historian to explore dependent on their area of interest within the Lancaster Witch Trials. One key area of interest includes the court system, (processes, accusations and documentation) A notable component unique to these trials involve the use of children in the court system which has impacted the future development of court systems even in North America.
  5.  Other areas to explore are general changes in the system structures based on societal knowledge development and norms. This include areas such as religious involvement, knowledge of mental illness and changes in societal beliefs within in this system.

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