Reverend Samuel Parris was a Puritan minister in colonial Massachusetts, best known for his role in the Salem witch trials of 1692. He served as the minister of the Salem Village church and was a central figure in the events that led to the accusations of witchcraft against several townspeople. His daughter, Betty Parris, and niece, Abigail Williams, were among the first to exhibit strange behaviors that sparked the witch hunt. Parris's actions and decisions during the trials were controversial, as he supported the prosecution of those accused of witchcraft. His fervent belief in the existence of witches and his desire to protect his community contributed to the hysteria that resulted in numerous trials and executions. Ultimately, Parris's reputation suffered, and he was dismissed from his position in Salem.