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Keystone
Ep. 24: Brigham Young, slavery, and the apostle that said NO
Jan 9, 2025
W. Paul Reeve, a prominent scholar specializing in Mormon studies, joins the conversation to unravel the complex history of slavery in Utah Territory. He discusses Joseph Smith's changing views and Brigham Young's nuanced stance on the subject. Listeners will learn about the experiences of enslaved individuals in the Latter-day Saints community and the legislative decisions made in the 1850s. Additionally, Reeve highlights the moral dilemmas faced by church leaders and the broader implications of these historical perspectives on race and justice.
46:57
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Quick takeaways
- Joseph Smith's evolving views on slavery reflect the tension within the Latter-day Saint community regarding race during a turbulent era.
- Brigham Young's administration faced the challenge of balancing the interests of slaveholders while addressing the national discourse on human bondage.
Deep dives
Joseph Smith and Slavery
Joseph Smith's views on slavery evolved over time, reflecting the changing cultural context of the United States. Initially, he permitted the baptism of free Black individuals and enslaved people but imposed restrictions on preaching to enslaved individuals without their masters' consent. By the time he campaigned for the presidency in 1844, his stance shifted towards advocating for gradual compensated emancipation, suggesting a plan to free enslaved individuals by selling Western lands. This change illustrates the tension within the Latter-day Saint community regarding racial issues and highlights Smith's attempts to navigate the complexities of slavery during a turbulent era.
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Discover
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