Mormons are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a religious group founded in the early 19th century by Joseph Smith. This group emerged during the Second Great Awakening, a period marked by religious revival and the quest for reform, and they sought to create a community centered on their unique beliefs and practices, which included revelations and teachings not found in mainstream Christianity.
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The Mormon movement began in 1830 when Joseph Smith published the Book of Mormon, presenting it as an ancient record of God's dealings with the inhabitants of America.
Mormons faced persecution and violence due to their beliefs, leading them to migrate westward to Utah in search of religious freedom and community.
Brigham Young succeeded Joseph Smith as the leader of the Mormons after Smith's assassination in 1844 and played a crucial role in their westward migration.
The Mormons established Salt Lake City as a religious and cultural center, where they developed a unique society based on their principles and teachings.
In 1890, the Mormon Church officially discontinued the practice of polygamy under pressure from the U.S. government, leading to significant changes within the community.
Review Questions
How did the beliefs and practices of Mormons differ from those of mainstream Christianity during the Second Great Awakening?
Mormons differed from mainstream Christianity through their belief in additional scriptures like the Book of Mormon and revelations given to Joseph Smith. They emphasized ongoing revelation, which was a departure from the established Christian notion that scripture was complete. Their unique practices, including communal living and initially polygamy, set them apart during a time when many sought religious reform and revival.
Discuss the role of persecution in shaping the early experiences of Mormons in America.
Persecution significantly shaped the early experiences of Mormons as they faced violence and discrimination due to their beliefs. This hostility led them to leave several locations, including New York and Missouri, where they encountered violent conflicts. Ultimately, this persecution drove them to migrate to Utah, where they could establish a safe haven and build a community based on their religious principles without fear of oppression.
Evaluate the impact of Brigham Young’s leadership on the growth and development of Mormon communities in the western United States.
Brigham Young's leadership was pivotal for Mormons as he guided their migration to Utah following Joseph Smith's death. His organizational skills and vision led to the establishment of Salt Lake City and a thriving settlement pattern across the West. Under his direction, Mormons developed agricultural practices, built infrastructure, and created a strong communal identity that helped ensure their survival and prosperity in a challenging environment while solidifying their religious practices.
Related terms
Joseph Smith: The founder of the Mormon faith, who claimed to have received divine revelations, including the translation of the Book of Mormon.
Book of Mormon: A sacred text of the Latter-day Saints, which Joseph Smith translated from golden plates he said were revealed to him by an angel.
Polygamy: The practice of having multiple wives, which was historically associated with early Mormon communities and led to significant controversy and legal challenges.