The Complex Narrative of 19th Century Mormon vs Anti-Mormon Violence

Understanding the history of the Mormon people and their experiences in the 19th century is crucial for a comprehensive view of the era. This period was marked by both persecution and violence inflicted upon Mormons by anti-Mormon factions, and vice versa. However, the extent of violence and the reasons behind it are often debated. This essay aims to provide a balanced perspective on the situation, examining the historical context, motivations, and consequences of these events.

Condemnation and Persecution

The early Church faced significant opposition, with criticisms ranging from the personal to the political. In the early Christian church, Jesus himself condemned pride and other sins, indicating that condemnation was not uniformly applied to all members. Similarly, early members of the Mormon Church faced persecution without the entirety of the community being at fault. The Mountain Meadows Massacre and the Haun's Mill Massacre are two significant events that highlight the violence experienced by Mormons during this period. However, the official records and testimonies can often differ, leading to diverse perspectives on the events.

The Boggs Proclamation and Mobs of Violence

The Boggs Proclamation issued by Missouri Governor Lilburn Boggs in 1838 called for the extermination of all Mormons and most of their possessions. This declaration was based on perceived economic and societal threats posed by the Mormon people. However, the actual implementation of the proclamation was inconsistent. The Haun's Mill Massacre, one of the most notorious incidents, resulted in the death of several individuals, but only one person was subsequently executed. According to modern historical texts, Brigham Young reportedly sent a decree prohibiting the execution of this individual, indicating a more nuanced approach to justice during this period.

In addition to these state-sanctioned actions, local mobs played a significant role in perpetuating violence against Mormons. The mob trials and executions of Joseph Smith and other leaders are emblematic of the broader unrest and violence. Joseph Smith believed in the U.S. Constitution and fought for equal rights, yet he faced opposition from those who adhered to a more radical interpretation of American law and society. The violence towards Mormons was justified by some as necessary to protect broader societal values, even if these values sometimes contradicted the U.S. Constitution.

Persecution vs. Violence

It is important to distinguish between the persecution experienced by Mormons and the violence they inflicted on others. While church members did engage in actions they believed were justifiable, such actions did not always match the scale and cruelty of anti-Mormon violence. The utterances of Brigham Young and the actions of other leaders should not be viewed in isolation but in the context of the broader struggle for religious and political freedom.

Historical Mindset and Anachronism

To fully comprehend the experiences of 19th-century Mormons, it is crucial to approach the period with an understanding of the historical context and the motivations of those involved. Thinking anachronistically—projecting current values and judgments onto the past—can lead to a misinterpretation of events. The Mormon community in the 19th century faced overwhelming challenges and often turned to Utah as a refuge. Despite the harsh environment, the region offered a semblance of stability and the opportunity to practice their faith.

It is also essential to recognize that natural disasters and economic hardships exacerbated the struggles faced by both Mormon and non-Mormon settlers. The geography and geology of Utah, with its hot, dry climate and poor soil, made agriculture and cattle ranching particularly challenging. Nevertheless, the community's resilience and determination are commendable. Many members of the Church persevered despite the difficult conditions, driven by their faith and the hope of establishing a theocratic society.

Ultimately, while the Mormon people experienced significant persecution, the extent and nature of their violence were not commensurate with that of their detractors. The question of whether tit-for-tat justifies violence is complex and requires a thorough examination of the historical and social dynamics of the time.