The Story of the Mormons

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

The Story of the Mormons

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

William Alexander Linn presents a secular, fact-based history of the Mormon movement from its 19th-century origins to Utah statehood. Examining leaders like Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, the book explores beliefs, political conflicts, migrations, and social controversies, offering an unvarnished look at a pivotal American religious phenomenon.

Summary up to 500 words

William Alexander Linn's *The Story of the Mormons* presents a comprehensive secular history of the Latter Day Saints, tracing their trajectory from the revelations of Joseph Smith in New York to the settlement of Salt Lake City. Linn critically examines the movement's origins, detailing the controversial origins of the Book of Mormon involving Sidney Rigdon and the Spaulding manuscript, and analyzes the autocratic rule established by Smith in Nauvoo. The narrative chronicles the violent expulsions from Ohio and Missouri driven by persecution and civil unrest, culminating in the migration to Utah under Brigham Young. The text explores the internal dynamics of the church, including the institution of polygamy, the succession struggles following Smith's assassination, and the rise of Young's despotism in Utah. Linn delves into significant events such as the Mountain Meadows Massacre, the Reformation, and the eventual legal battles against polygamy that led to Utah's statehood. Drawing on Mormon periodicals, autobiographies, and non-Mormon accounts, Linn provides a balanced yet critical examination of the church's political maneuvering and enduring impact on American history. The work seeks to present facts rather than moral deductions, relying heavily on original sources to counter the biased narratives often found in church histories or hostile exposés. By focusing on the real character of the constituency and the specific aims of the leaders, Linn offers a detailed account that moves beyond the singular focus on polygamy to reveal the complex social, political, and religious forces that shaped the Mormon experience.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.globalgreyebooks.com/ebooks/william-alexander-linn_story-of-the-mormons.epub

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Categories

• Religion
• History