A woman's financial independence in 17th century colonial New England made her vulnerable to accusations of witchcraft, according to experts. Katherine Harrison, a wealthy widow who controlled her own farm and business ventures, was accused of witchcraft by her neighbours in 1668. Although her case is not as well-known as the Salem witch trials, it is representative of a pattern in the witch-hunts of the time.
Historians have found that women who controlled their own wealth and property were more likely to be targeted during the witch-hunts. This is particularly evident in the case of Harrison, who was accused of having a 'familiarity with Satan' and being able to perform 'things beyond the ordinary course of nature'. Her business endeavours, including beekeeping and spinning, were seen as evidence of her supposed witchcraft.
The pattern of women being accused of witchcraft due to economic and social factors is a theme that has been explored by US historian Carol F Karlsen. In her book 'The Devil in the Shape of a Woman', Karlsen found that women from families without male heirs were more likely to be prosecuted for witchcraft. This was because they were seen as a threat to the patriarchal norms of the time.
Harrison's case is a stark reminder of the dangers of labelling a woman as a 'witch' due to her financial independence and business acumen. While the label may not have the same connotations as it did in the 17th century, it is still a risk factor for women who are seen as outliers in society.