"Witch hunts" refer to the historical practice of seeking out and persecuting individuals accused of witchcraft, often based on superstition and fear. These events typically involved trials, where the accused faced severe punishment, including execution, without substantial evidence. The most famous witch hunts occurred during the European witch craze and the Salem witch trials in colonial America. The term "witch hunt" has evolved to describe any campaign against individuals or groups perceived as a threat, often fueled by irrational fears or societal pressures. In modern contexts, it can refer to political or social movements that target specific people based on unfounded accusations or prejudices.