6. The six Paisley Witches suffered the last mass execution of witches in Western Europe in 1697
Western Europe’s last mass execution of witches took place in Scotland in 1697. An 11-year-old girl, Christine Shaw, suffered fits, and in her delirium (or hostility) accused 7 women of bewitching her. She also vomited pins, feathers, and other strange items. Doctors could find no medical cause for her condition, and local authorities began an investigation. Those questioned made allegations in turn, and soon 26 people were accused. At their trial, the judge warned the jury that acquitting the accused would make them accessories to the crime. 7 people were found guilty and hanged, including a 14-year-old boy.
