Salem’s Centuries: New Perspectives on the History of an Old American City

Salem, MA is best known today for its infamous witch trials in 1692, yet there is much more to this small city. An important trading center since its founding in 1626, Salem was also the scene of dynamic social and material changes in the twentieth century. Salem’s Centuries develops a more inclusive and comprehensive historical framework and expands upon the city’s signature eras of witch trials and maritime ascendancy.

In advance of the city’s quadricentennial, the editors and contributors highlight the depth and diversity of Salem’s history, including stories of indigenous peoples, early settlers, African Americans, and immigrants, spanning from the American and industrial revolutions to World War II and the present. Chronologically arranged by century, chapters examine how Salem’s history has been lost or distorted in its public presentations over time.

Salem’s Centuries is a fresh look at an old American city. And yes, it includes the accused witches.

Contributors: Kimberly S. Alexander, Emerson W. Baker, Aviva Chomsky, Andrew Darien, Elizabeth Duclos-Orsello, Theresa Giard, Marilyn Hayward, Bethany Jay, Michele Louro, Elizabeth McKeigue, Robert W. McMicken, Dane A. Morrison, Maria Pride, J.D. Scrimgeour, Margo Shea, Hans Schwartz, Brian Valimont, Maryann Zujewski, and the editors

In the series History and the Public

Donna A Seger is Professor of History at Salem State University. She is the author of The Practical Renaissance: Information Culture and the Quest for Knowledge in Early Modern England, and manages the blog Streets of Salem.

Brad Austin is Professor of History at Salem State University. He is the author of Democratic Sports: Men’s and Women’s College Athletics during the Great Depression and the coeditor of Understanding and Teaching the Vietnam War and Teaching U.S. History through Sports.