For thousands of years, black cats have been regarded as mysterious creatures with supernatural powers that were associated with witches and even death. It’s also believed that witches have the ability to change into cats, nine times in fact, which originates from the belief that cats have nine lives. Dread of cats, especially black ones, first arose in Europe during the middle ages. The characteristics of the cat’s independence, arrogance, and stealth along with its sudden overpopulation in major cities, have contributed to its fall from grace. Alley cats were often fed by poor, lonely older ladies when witch hysteria struck many of these homeless women were accused of practicing black magic, their cat companions (especially black ones) were guilty of witchery by association. Not even I could make this up!

Part of “Roots of EVL” Show