Friedrich Spee

Friedrich Spee was a German Jesuit priest, professor, and poet, most well known as a forceful opponent of witch trials and one who was an insider writing from the epicenter of the European witch-phobia. Spee argued strongly against the use of torture, and as an eyewitness he gathered a book full of details regarding its cruelty and unreliability. He wrote, "Torture has the power to create witches where none exist."

25 February 1591

Born on the same birth day (25 February): Blanche of Portugal (1259–1321) • Brandin Podziemski • Carlo Goldoni • Erick Fedde • Larry Gelbart • Mario Hezonja • Monte Irvin • Paul Elvstrøm • Ron Santo • Veronica Webb

Born in the same month (February 1591): Guercino