Avoid repeating the same words and phrases at the end and beginning of consecutive sentences. They were led by Tituba, a slave of Reverend Putnam . Reverend Putnam caught them in the act of witchcraft. Reorganize, avoiding the repeated phrase. They were led by Tituba, a slave of Reverend Putnam who caught them in the act of witchcraft.
Active voice makes witing more concise, vigorous, and direct.
The subject of slavery is often studied by historians. There are, however, appropriate times for passive voice. Using active voice often make sentences shorter, making brevity a by-product of vigor. Similarly, omit needless words. Sentences should contain no unnecessary words.