Advanced Placement (AP) European History Practice Exam

Which of the following most accurately describes a significant trend in witchcraft prosecutions shown by the graph?

1. The number of prosecutions increased sharply in the late 1500s and decreased sharply in the late 1600s

2. Witchcraft prosecutions peaked in the early 1600s and then remained steady

3. There was a decline in prosecutions throughout the 1500s and 1600s

4. Witchcraft accusations were more prevalent in rural areas than in cities

The correct answer is: The number of prosecutions increased sharply in the late 1500s and decreased sharply in the late 1600s

The correct answer accurately highlights the pattern observed in the historical trend of witchcraft prosecutions. During the late 1500s, there was a notable increase in witchcraft accusations and trials, particularly influenced by social, religious, and political tensions of the time, such as the Protestant Reformation and the subsequent fears over heresy and devil worship. This era saw a peak in witch hunts, with many individuals accused based on paranoia, scapegoating, and social upheaval. As the late 1600s approached, there was a significant decline in these prosecutions. This decrease can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the Age of Enlightenment, which emphasized rationality and skepticism of superstition, leading to a more critical view of witch hunts. Additionally, judicial systems became more cautious and began to prioritize evidence over mere accusations. Therefore, tracking this trend of a sharp rise followed by a sharp decline in prosecutions in the respective centuries aligns with the accurate understanding of historical witchcraft trials.