Why were people accused of being a witch in the 17th century?

In the 17th century, people were often accused of witchcraft due to a combination of social, political, and religious factors. Fear of the unknown, particularly in times of crisis such as disease, famine, or war, led communities to scapegoat individuals who were seen as different or who fell outside societal norms. Accusations were frequently fueled by superstition, personal grievances, and the influence of religious authorities. Women, especially those who were older, poor, or single, were disproportionately targeted in witch hunts, reflecting deeper societal anxieties about gender and power.