History of slavery in Utah

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== History of Slavery in Utah ==

The history of slavery in Utah is a complex and multifaceted subject that spans several centuries, involving various groups and legal frameworks. Slavery in Utah primarily involved the enslavement of Native Americans and African Americans.

Early Native American Slavery

Before the arrival of European settlers, various Native American tribes in the region practiced forms of slavery. These practices often involved the capture and enslavement of members of rival tribes. The arrival of Spanish explorers and settlers in the 16th century introduced new dynamics to the existing systems of slavery.

Mexican Period

During the period when Utah was part of Mexico, the Mexican government attempted to curtail the enslavement of Native Americans through various decrees. However, these laws were often poorly enforced, and the practice continued.

Mormon Settlement

The arrival of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) settlers in 1847 marked a significant turning point in the history of slavery in Utah. The LDS Church, led by Brigham Young, established the Utah Territory in 1850. The settlers brought with them enslaved African Americans, and the practice of enslaving Native Americans also continued.

Legalization of Slavery

In 1852, the Utah Territorial Legislature passed the "Act in Relation to Service," which legalized slavery in the territory. This law allowed for the enslavement of both African Americans and Native Americans. The act was unique in that it included provisions for the treatment and eventual emancipation of slaves, although these provisions were rarely enforced.

Abolition of Slavery

The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified in 1865, abolished slavery throughout the United States, including Utah. The end of the Civil War and the subsequent Reconstruction era brought significant changes to the legal and social status of former slaves in Utah.

Legacy

The legacy of slavery in Utah is still evident today in various forms, including historical sites, cultural practices, and ongoing discussions about race and equality. The history of slavery in Utah is an important part of the broader history of slavery in the United States and continues to be a subject of study and reflection.

Related Pages

• Utah Territory
• Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
• Brigham Young
• Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution
• Native Americans in the United States
• African Americans

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