John Larsen, an expert on LDS history and theology, joins the host to discuss the Reed Smoot Hearings, a pivotal moment in Mormon history. They delve into the historical context, the persecution and politicization of polygamy, Joseph F. Smith's testimony, and the impact of the hearings on Mormons in America.
The Reed Smoot Hearings and the Battle over Polygamy
The Reed Smoot hearings, which took place from 1903 to 1907, were a significant event in American history. The hearings primarily focused on the issue of polygamy and its practice within the Mormon Church. Opponents of Reed Smoot, who was a member of the Mormon Church and a Republican senator, raised concerns about the continued practice of polygamy in Utah, despite the official manifesto in 1890 declaring an end to the practice. The hearings explored the accusations of post-manifesto polygamy and the extent to which the Mormon Church influenced politics and government. The hearings also addressed concerns about the loyalty of Mormons to the federal government and the separation of church and state. Ultimately, the Reed Smoot hearings played a significant role in shaping the relationship between religion and government in America.
Reed Smoot Hearings: A Validation of Mormonism
The Reed Smoot hearings were a pivotal moment in Mormon history, testing the church's legitimacy as a mainstream religious institution. The hearings centered around Reed Smoot, an apostle in the LDS Church who was elected to the United States Senate, but faced opposition due to concerns about Mormon polygamy and loyalty to the country. Joseph F. Smith, the president of the LDS Church at the time, testified in the hearings. The church successfully defended Smoot's position, convincing Congress that the LDS Church had abandoned polygamy and affirmed their loyalty to the United States.
Joseph F. Smith's Evasiveness and Deception
During his testimony, Joseph F. Smith was evasive and deceptive in his answers, particularly regarding Mormon polygamy and revelations. He denied any knowledge of post-manifesto plural marriages, despite evidence to the contrary, and refused to explicitly admit to receiving revelations. Smith's evasiveness can be seen as an attempt to protect the church's image and maintain its political power and influence.
Aftermath: The Legacy of the Reed Smoot Hearings
The Reed Smoot hearings had significant consequences for both the LDS Church and the United States. For the church, it marked a turning point in seeking acceptance and legitimacy as a mainstream religious institution, adopting an identity of American exceptionalism and striving to integrate into American society. The hearings also led to the church distancing itself from polygamy and becoming more conservative, as well as embracing prosperity gospel. For the United States, the hearings opened the door for more religious pluralism and impacted the Republican Party, as Mormons became a significant part of it. Overall, the hearings were a net positive for both the church and the country.
From 1904-1907 Congress held a series of hearings on whether Reed Smoot, an LDS apostle who was elected to the Senate, should be seated. The hearing provide a deep look at Mormon practice, history and theology in the congressional record. These hearings and the controversies surrounding them remain a pivotal moment in Mormon History.
