The tumultuous aftermath of the Latter-day Saints' expulsion from Missouri sets the stage for conflict in Illinois. The murder of key leaders spurs further violence, leading to the chaotic Battle of Nauvoo. The hosts delve into the dynamics between Latter-day Saints and Native Americans, noting Brigham Young's evolving strategies. The Utah War ignites tensions with the U.S. government, revealing complex motivations on both sides. The insightful discussion culminates in the tragic Mountain Meadows Massacre, examining the heavy toll of these historical events.
The expulsion of Latter-day Saints from Missouri led them to establish Nauvoo, which eventually became a site of significant conflict and tragedy.
Brigham Young's leadership after arriving in Utah emphasized both defense against potential Native American hostilities and efforts toward peaceful negotiations over time.
The Utah War was characterized by psychological tactics and a focus on diplomacy, ultimately leading to negotiated resolutions that minimized bloodshed.
Deep dives
Relocation and Conflict in Nauvoo
After being expelled from Missouri following the 1838 Mormon War, the Latter-day Saints relocated to Illinois, establishing the thriving city of Nauvoo. Initially, they experienced a brief period of relative peace; however, tensions soon reignited, culminating in the murders of Joseph and Hiram Smith. These internal and external conflicts led to the Saints being forced to evacuate Nauvoo within two years, as violence escalated once more. The urgency of leaving was underscored by Joseph's poignant remarks about preventing a repeat of the horrors suffered in Missouri.
The Battle of Nauvoo
The Battle of Nauvoo in September 1846 marked the violent climax of anti-Mormon hostility as remaining Saints, mostly individuals who struggled to leave, faced a surge of aggression from locals. Despite the defenders being outnumbered, they improvised their defenses but quickly found themselves overwhelmed. Following a brief confrontation, the anti-Mormon forces captured the city, leading to chaos as homes were ransacked and the temple desecrated. The aftermath drew national attention, highlighting the plight of the Saints as they were forced into a new phase of migration.
Conflicts with Native Americans
Upon arriving in Utah, the early Saints were wary of possible conflicts with Native Americans, conditioned by their experiences in Nauvoo. Initially, Brigham Young instructed the Saints to build defenses and prepare for potential hostilities, yet he also recognized the indigenous people as descendants of Israel. Some early incidents included livestock thefts by Ute tribes, which led to escalating tensions and retaliatory measures authorized by Young. Over time, however, relations improved as Young advocated for peaceful negotiations and cooperation with Native American tribes.
The Utah War: A Complex Conflict
The Utah War (1857-1858) emerged from growing tensions between the United States government and the Latter-day Saints, primarily over Brigham Young's dual role as church leader and governor. President Buchanan ordered a military force to assert control, resulting in a standoff characterized by psychological warfare and tactical maneuvers without significant bloodshed. Latter-day Saints employed strategies to delay the U.S. Army while engaging in limited skirmishes, prioritizing self-preservation over outright aggression. This conflict ultimately necessitated negotiation, and the army entered Utah under conditions that minimized confrontation due to effective diplomacy.
Thomas L. Cain: A Peacemaker
Thomas L. Cain played a crucial role in de-escalating the Utah War by advocating for peaceful resolution between the Saints and the U.S. government. Upon his journey to Utah, he bore witness to the determination of both sides while promoting understanding and reconciliation. His efforts culminated in a successful negotiation for troop presence in the territory without imposing military governance on Salt Lake City, exemplifying his commitment to peace. Cain's lasting legacy as a peacemaker earned him admiration and acknowledgment from both the Latter-day Saints and broader historical narratives.
After the 1838 “Mormon War” and their official expulsion from Missouri, Latter-day Saints relocated to Illinois where they built up the city of Nauvoo and a number of other settlements in Hancock County. After a short time of relative peace, they were again embroiled in conflict with their enemies which culminated in the murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. This was followed two years later by the battle of Nauvoo and yet another expulsion from a US state with the blessing of its governor. Then it was off to the West where, not long after the Saints’ arrival in the Salt Lake Valley, conflicts began to arise with Native Americans. And by 1857 US President James Buchanan had ordered a force of 2,500 military personnel, under the command of Colonel Albert Sidney Johnston, to march to Utah to ensure that Brigham Young be replaced as the governor of Utah, which brought on the “Utah War.”
Today on Church History Matters, we discuss all of this and of course trace Latter-day Saint involvment in the violence which occured along the way.
