-
The emergence of modern Pagan Witchcraft, also known as Wicca, influenced by various occult and esoteric movements such as Theosophy, Freemasonry, and folk traditions. -
The publication of "Witchcraft Today" by Gerald Gardner, considered one of the founding texts of modern Witchcraft. Gardner claimed to have been initiated into a surviving witch coven and popularized the concept of a "witch cult" practicing their own form of witchcraft. -
Gardner published "The Witch's Book of Shadows," which outlined rituals, practices, and beliefs of his form of Witchcraft. This became a central text for modern Wiccans and influenced subsequent traditions and practitioners. -
Raymond Buckland, an Englishman who was initiated into Gardnerian Witchcraft, published "Buckland's Complete Book of Witchcraft," which became one of the first widely available books on Wicca in the United States, helping to popularize the religion in North America. -
The feminist movement and the rise of the New Age movement in the United States contributed to the growth of modern Pagan Witchcraft, as it appealed to those seeking a spiritual path that emphasized goddess worship, nature reverence, and personal empowerment. -
The publication of "To Ride a Silver Broomstick" by Silver RavenWolf, which introduced a more eclectic and solitary approach to modern Witchcraft. This book, along with subsequent works by RavenWolf and others, helped to popularize solitary Wicca and modern Witchcraft among a wider audience. -
The Internet revolutionized the accessibility of information about modern Pagan Witchcraft, allowing for the formation of online communities, discussion forums, and the sharing of resources and knowledge among practitioners. -
The publication of "The Witch's Book of Shadows: Phyllis Curott," by Phyllis Curott, a prominent Wiccan priestess and advocate for religious freedom. This book helped to raise awareness about modern Pagan Witchcraft as a legitimate religious and spiritual path, and the need for legal recognition and protection of its practitioners. -
The release of the documentary "Hecate: Mother of Witches," directed by Viktória Kováts, which explores the history, practices, and beliefs of modern Witchcraft and the reclaiming of the figure of the witch as a symbol of female empowerment.