Here is a summary of what happened to Giles Corey:
1. Accusations: In March 1692, Giles Corey's wife, Martha Corey, was accused of witchcraft by several individuals in the Salem community. As her husband, Giles was also suspected of being involved in witchcraft.
2. Examination and Imprisonment: Giles was brought before the magistrates for examination. Despite denying the accusations against him, he was imprisoned due to the strong testimonies presented by the accusers.
3. Refusal to Enter a Plea: When asked to enter a plea in court, Giles Corey chose to remain silent and refused to either plead guilty or not guilty. This silence was interpreted by the court as a form of civil disobedience and contempt.
4. Pressing to Death: In response to Giles Corey's refusal to cooperate with the court, he was subjected to "peine forte et dure" (strong and hard punishment), a legal practice at the time. This method involved gradually placing heavy stones or weights on the chest of the accused, with the intention of causing their death if they still refused to plead.
5. Death under Pressure: Giles Corey was subjected to this horrific form of punishment over several days. It is recorded that he showed remarkable resilience and refused to submit, even as the pressure became increasingly intense. According to historical accounts, he reportedly uttered the phrase, "More weight."
6. Declaration of Guilt: After several days of being pressed, Giles Corey died on September 19, 1692. His refusal to plead ultimately resulted in him being declared guilty of witchcraft posthumously.
7. Significance: The case of Giles Corey became a symbol of individual defiance against unjust authority. His steadfast refusal to succumb to the pressure placed on him demonstrated his principles and resistance against false accusations. The practice of "pressing to death" was subsequently abolished in English common law as a result of the public outrage and reflection sparked by Giles Corey's case.
Giles Corey's steadfastness in the face of persecution serves as a reminder of the importance of individual rights and the resistance against unjust authority, making him a significant figure in the history of the Salem witch trials and the pursuit of justice.