A Grumpy Old Man Gets Targeted

About this episode

The episode discusses George Jacobs Sr., an elderly man whose fiery personality makes him a target during the Salem witch trials.

George Jacobs Sr., a fiery-tempered and outspoken man more than 80 years old, finds himself at the center of the witch hunt. His sharp tongue and abrasive personality made him an easy mark in a community gripped by fear. Learn more about host Greg Houle's novel: The Putnams of Salem: A Novel of Power and Betrayal During the Salem Witch Trials.

People in this episode

Host: Greg Houle

Topics covered

• Salem Witch Trials
• witch hunt
• community fear
• historical figures
• power dynamics

Keywords

• George Jacobs Sr.
• Salem Witch Trials
• witch hunt
• Greg Houle
• historical narrative

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: The Putnams of Salem: A Novel of Power and Betrayal During the Salem Witch Trials

More episodes of The Salem Witch Trials Podcast

• The Man Who Put Salem Back Together · May 5, 2026 · 26 min
• Tituba and the Fear That Made a Witch · February 27, 2026 · 23 min
• Welcome Back to Salem: Season 2 Preview · November 27, 2025 · 4 min
• BONUS: The Putnams of Salem: The Audiobook · October 10, 2025 · 14 min
• A Reflection on Our First Season · March 27, 2025 · 10 min
• Suspicion and Fear Consume Wilmot Redd · March 3, 2025 · 21 min