Brigham Young

Brigham Young by Charles William Carter

Brigham Young (June 1, 1801 – August 29, 1877) was an American religious leader, politician, and settler. He was the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and the founder of Salt Lake City, Utah. Young played a crucial role in the westward expansion of the United States and the establishment of the state of Utah. His leadership was instrumental in the survival and growth of the LDS Church after the death of its founder, Joseph Smith.

Early Life

Brigham Young was born to John Young and Abigail Howe in Whitingham, Vermont. His early life was marked by poverty and limited formal education. Young worked as a carpenter, painter, and glazier. In 1832, after a period of religious reflection and study, Young converted to the LDS Church, which had been founded just two years earlier.

Leadership of the LDS Church

Following the assassination of Joseph Smith in 1844, Brigham Young emerged as a key leader among the Latter-day Saints. In 1847, he led the first group of Mormon pioneers from Nauvoo, Illinois, to the Salt Lake Valley in what is now Utah. Under Young's direction, the early settlers established a theocratic society and made significant efforts in irrigation, agriculture, and community building.

Young was officially sustained as the president of the LDS Church on December 27, 1847. His tenure was marked by the establishment of the Perpetual Emigrating Fund Company, which assisted church members in migrating to Utah, and the organization of a militia, known as the Nauvoo Legion, to protect the community.

Governor of Utah Territory

In 1850, the U.S. Congress established the Utah Territory, and Brigham Young was appointed as its first governor and superintendent of Indian Affairs. His governance was characterized by efforts to maintain autonomy from the federal government, particularly in matters of religion and polygamy, a practice Young publicly endorsed in 1852.

Young's administration faced challenges, including the Utah War (1857-1858), a confrontation with the United States Army. Although the conflict ended without significant violence, it resulted in the replacement of Young as governor by a non-Mormon appointee.

Legacy

Brigham Young's legacy is complex. He is revered within the LDS Church for his leadership, pioneering spirit, and dedication to his faith. Under his direction, the church grew significantly, and the settlement of the American West was markedly influenced by Mormon pioneers.

However, Young's leadership also included controversial aspects, such as his role in the Mountain Meadows Massacre and his strong advocacy of polygamy, which later led to conflicts with the U.S. government.

Young died in Salt Lake City in 1877. Today, he is remembered as one of the most significant figures in the history of the LDS Church and the American West.