The Troubling Origins of Mormon Polygamy and Its Lasting Impact Today
Mormonism’s early history is deeply intertwined with one of its most controversial practices—polygamy. This facet of the religion began with its founder, Joseph Smith, in the early 19th century. While Mormonism itself is often regarded as a movement of faith and endurance, particularly during the westward migration to Utah, it’s critical to acknowledge the troubling roots of its polygamous practices and the ripple effects that can still be felt today.
Joseph Smith and the Secret Practice of Polygamy
Joseph Smith, who established the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), quietly introduced polygamy, or plural marriage, to his followers. Under the guise of religious command, Smith married numerous women, some as young as 14. This practice remained secret at first, yet it set a precedent that would extend far beyond Smith’s lifetime.
Brigham Young, Smith’s successor, is perhaps one of the most well-known figures associated with Mormonism’s polygamist past. Young had over 50 wives and led thousands of Mormon followers westward, establishing what is now Utah. This journey is often depicted as a heroic and faith-driven migration, but it wasn't without its dark sides.
Colonization and the Consequences of Expansion
The Mormon migration westward displaced countless Indigenous peoples, as settlers claimed lands that did not belong to them. The notion of “religious freedom” served as a pretext for colonization, and while polygamy was a central issue, the establishment of power and control was equally significant. Mormon leaders, particularly Brigham Young, sought to create a society where they could continue practicing polygamy and exert control over the lives of many women.
The Evolution of the Church and Its Modern Wealth
While the mainstream LDS Church no longer practices polygamy, its roots in control and patriarchy continue to shape its structure. Today, the church is one of the wealthiest religious organizations in the world, with an estimated $500 billion in assets. Its economic and social influence extends well beyond the religious sphere, particularly in Utah, where its cultural impact remains deeply ingrained.
Utah’s Modern Legacy of Control
In modern Utah, echoes of these past power dynamics persist. The state is one of the top places for plastic surgery in the United States, a phenomenon many attribute to the intense social pressures placed on women. Generational teachings within the LDS community have often objectified women and prioritized male authority, leaving a lasting imprint on societal expectations.
While the church has evolved and polygamy is no longer a sanctioned practice, the influence of patriarchal control and hierarchy still profoundly affects the lives of many members. For some, these dynamics are subtle, manifesting in cultural norms around appearance and obedience. For others, the effects are more pronounced, as communities navigate the complexities of faith, control, and personal autonomy.
The Importance of Questioning Institutions
As we reflect on the history of Mormonism and its lasting legacy, it serves as a reminder of the importance of questioning institutions that seek to control lives under the guise of faith. While the LDS Church has made strides in moving away from its polygamist past, the remnants of that control—whether through colonization, patriarchy, or societal expectations—continue to echo in the present day.
Joseph Smith and the Secret Practice of Polygamy
Joseph Smith, who established the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), quietly introduced polygamy, or plural marriage, to his followers. Under the guise of religious command, Smith married numerous women, some as young as 14. This practice remained secret at first, yet it set a precedent that would extend far beyond Smith’s lifetime.
Brigham Young, Smith’s successor, is perhaps one of the most well-known figures associated with Mormonism’s polygamist past. Young had over 50 wives and led thousands of Mormon followers westward, establishing what is now Utah. This journey is often depicted as a heroic and faith-driven migration, but it wasn't without its dark sides.
Colonization and the Consequences of Expansion
The Mormon migration westward displaced countless Indigenous peoples, as settlers claimed lands that did not belong to them. The notion of “religious freedom” served as a pretext for colonization, and while polygamy was a central issue, the establishment of power and control was equally significant. Mormon leaders, particularly Brigham Young, sought to create a society where they could continue practicing polygamy and exert control over the lives of many women.
The Evolution of the Church and Its Modern Wealth
While the mainstream LDS Church no longer practices polygamy, its roots in control and patriarchy continue to shape its structure. Today, the church is one of the wealthiest religious organizations in the world, with an estimated $500 billion in assets. Its economic and social influence extends well beyond the religious sphere, particularly in Utah, where its cultural impact remains deeply ingrained.
Utah’s Modern Legacy of Control
In modern Utah, echoes of these past power dynamics persist. The state is one of the top places for plastic surgery in the United States, a phenomenon many attribute to the intense social pressures placed on women. Generational teachings within the LDS community have often objectified women and prioritized male authority, leaving a lasting imprint on societal expectations.
While the church has evolved and polygamy is no longer a sanctioned practice, the influence of patriarchal control and hierarchy still profoundly affects the lives of many members. For some, these dynamics are subtle, manifesting in cultural norms around appearance and obedience. For others, the effects are more pronounced, as communities navigate the complexities of faith, control, and personal autonomy.
The Importance of Questioning Institutions
As we reflect on the history of Mormonism and its lasting legacy, it serves as a reminder of the importance of questioning institutions that seek to control lives under the guise of faith. While the LDS Church has made strides in moving away from its polygamist past, the remnants of that control—whether through colonization, patriarchy, or societal expectations—continue to echo in the present day.
