Historian Bryan Buchanan and Lindsay Hansen Park (Year of Polygamy Podcast) discuss the complex history of Joseph Smith's polygamy, uncovering evidence of his multiple marriages, the experiences of his wives, and the broader implications of this aspect of Mormon history. They emphasize the importance of nuanced historical analysis and encourage open discussions. The podcast covers topics like Mormon representation in Hollywood, Joseph Smith's struggle with alcoholism, controversy surrounding Fannie Alger, the impact of troubled converts, and the connection between masonry, temple ceremony, and polygamy.
Joseph Smith's polygamy in Nauvoo was driven by power dynamics and control rather than solely sexual desire.
Masonry played a significant role in the development of Mormon polygamy, with Joseph Smith's involvement in the masonic lodge influencing the structure and rituals of the endowment ceremony.
Emma Smith's role in Joseph Smith's practice of polygamy was complex, highlighting the power imbalances and emotional toll faced by women in the system.
The tragic figure of Joseph Smith and the negative effects of portraying him as flawless are explored, suggesting that Mormonism would have benefited from embracing a more ethical version of the faith.
The circumstances surrounding Joseph Smith's martyrdom challenge the traditional narrative, revealing his actions contributing to escalating tensions and his consolidation of power.
The podcast episode highlights the division and negative effects of polygamy, including the acquisition of power, erosion of moral compasses, and some Mormons feeling above the law.
Deep dives
The Smith family and their struggles with farming and alcohol
The Smith family, including Joseph Smith, Sr. and Joseph Smith, Jr., faced financial challenges and had difficulties with farming. Joseph Smith, Sr. struggled with alcoholism, which had a significant impact on the family. Joseph Smith, Jr. himself had issues with alcohol and disorderly conduct, which included propositions and interactions with women.
Rumors and allegations of Joseph Smith's relationships with women
There were rumors and allegations surrounding Joseph Smith, particularly in regards to his interactions with women. Some accounts mention his advances towards women he was not married to, causing distress within his marriage to Emma Smith. These rumors and allegations played a role in shaping how Joseph Smith was viewed by others.
The early introduction of polygamy and the Lamanite revelation
In 1831, some accounts suggest that Joseph Smith had a revelation allowing missionaries to marry Lamanite women as an assimilation strategy. However, this account is based on a later recollection and lacks direct contemporary evidence. This early period laid the groundwork for further development of polygamy within the church.
The Kirtland era and the 'Family'
During the Kirtland era, Sidney Rigdon and other families formed a cooperative community called the 'Family' or 'Big Family.' This communal lifestyle reflected a time of experimentation and communal living. While they did not practice 'free love' at this time, it was an early expression of a more cooperative and communal lifestyle.
Joseph Smith's Polygamy in Nauvoo
In Nauvoo, Joseph Smith practiced polygamy, with the first documented plural wife being Louisa Beaman. Polyandry, the practice of marrying women who were already married to other men, also took place, with many of these unions occurring earlier in the Nauvoo period. The motivations behind these marriages are complex, but they can be seen as a means for Joseph to build power and loyalty within the community. The issue of progeny from these unions is debated, with limited documentation available and DNA research still ongoing.
The Control and Power Dynamics in Polygamy
Polygamy in Nauvoo, including polyandry, was driven by power dynamics rather than solely sexual desire. Joseph Smith sought to exert control and build loyalty by forming relationships with the wives of his associates and those with influence. The practice of polygamy enabled him to create a network of powerful connections within the community. Discussions around sex in polygamous marriages often gloss over the deeper issues of power and control.
The Complexity of Joseph Smith's Polygamy
The topic of Joseph Smith's polygamy in Nauvoo is a complex and multifaceted one. While some argue that the marriages were a result of divine command and divine understanding, others view them as a manifestation of Joseph's own desires and attempts to consolidate power. The issue of progeny and whether Joseph Smith had children with his plural wives remains a topic of discussion, with DNA research providing new possibilities. The practice of polyandry, marrying women who were already married, added an additional layer of complexity to this period in Joseph Smith's life.
Polygamy and Power
Polygamy was not about romantic love, but about power and control. The marriages of Joseph Smith were characterized by coercion, lies, and a lack of consent. Rather than focusing on whether or not sex occurred, the harmful aspects of power dynamics and control should be the main concern. The danger of viewing polygamy solely through a sexual lens is that it obscures the real issues of power and coercion that were at play.
The Influence of Masonry on Polygamy
Masonry played a significant role in the development of Mormon polygamy. Joseph Smith's involvement in the masonic lodge influenced the structure and rituals of the endowment ceremony, which in turn became intertwined with the practice of polygamy. The connections between masonry and polygamy were explicit, with Brigham Young even acknowledging the influence during his tenure as leader. The development of the endowment and its connection to masonry is a key factor in understanding the origin and justification of polygamy within the Mormon faith.
Emma Smith and the Complexities of Polygamy
Emma Smith's role in Joseph Smith's practice of polygamy is a complex one. While it can be argued that she may have benefitted from the practice financially or gained some power within the system, it is important to recognize that she was also a victim of Joseph Smith's manipulations and abuse. The idea that Emma would have willingly accepted plural wives or engaged in extramarital relationships as a form of retaliation is speculative and negates the power imbalances and emotional toll of polygamy. Emma's experiences highlight the multifaceted nature of polygamy and the difficulties faced by women in this system.
The Tragedy of Joseph Smith and the Impact of Polygamy
The podcast episode delves into the tragic figure of Joseph Smith and the harmful consequences of trying to portray him as perfect. It explores the notion that Mormonism would have been better off if it had embraced a more ethical version of Mormonism, rather than championing the idea of Joseph Smith's flawlessness. The episode also delves into the role of polygamy in creating divided loyalties within families and wider divides within the Mormon community. It highlights the negative effects of polygamy, such as the acquisition of power and the erosion of moral compasses, leading to some Mormons feeling above the law. The episode suggests that the tragedy of Mormonism lies in choosing the wrong interpretation of the Book of Mormon and embracing flawed individuals as godly.
The Martyrdom of Joseph Smith and the Impact of his Controversies
The podcast episode discusses the circumstances surrounding the martyrdom of Joseph Smith and challenges the traditional narrative that portrays him as an innocent lamb to the slaughter. It explores the series of events leading to his arrest in Carthage, Illinois, including his attempts to gain political power, the growing animosity between the Mormons and nearby towns, and the controversies surrounding polygamy. The episode reveals that Joseph Smith's actions, such as his speech inciting war-like sentiments, the destruction of the Nauvoo Expositor printing press, and his consolidation of power, contributed to the escalating tensions. It also considers the role of polygamy in fueling the persecution and examines how the perception of Joseph Smith as a cult-like figure parallels with other infamous cult leaders in history.
In this engaging interview with historian Bryan Buchanan and Lindsay Hansen Park (Year of Polygamy Podcast) we delve into the complex history of Joseph Smith's controversial practice of polygamy. What evidence supports his multiple marriages, the experiences of his wives, and the implications of this aspect of Mormon history?
Throughout the interview, we emphasize the importance of nuanced historical analysis over apologetics, encouraging open and honest discussions about Mormon history, polygamy, and the broader impact of these topics on the faith's evolution and how it affects members today. This interview provides a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities within Mormon history and invites them to engage in constructive conversations about these issues.
