This fifth session looks at the history of the settlement of the State of Utah during the era of Mormon leader Brigham Young. It is based upon Dean May's book (1987) A People's History of Utah. This session will look at episodes five and seven which pertain to the Mormon migration into the Salt Lake area. Episode five focuses on aspects of the early history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the Mormons) that would have a direct impact on eventual settlement of the Utah area. Outlines pertinent events in Mormon history from the church's 1830 founding in upstate New York through its 1846 exodus from Nauvoo, Illinois. Discusses how early experiences and doctrinal development would shape the Mormons into a pioneer group uniquely qualified to settle the harsh environment of Utah. Episode seven documents the trek of first company of Mormons, led by Brigham Young, from Iowa to the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. Describes their preparations, illustrates their route, recounts their experiences in traveling to the Rocky Mountain region. Examines some considerations taken into account in selecting the Salt Lake Valley as a settlement site.

Reading: The Mormon Trail (2007) U.S. National Park Service; Brigham Young Biography; LDS Church Presidents

Video: A People’s History of Utah (U. of Utah) (Part 5), (Part 7)

Study Questions:

When did Mormonism begin its journedy from the East to the West? Willing and tenacious adherance to Church authority characterizes the faith of the early Mormons settling Utah and Arizona. How does that adherenace to authority differ from similar expectations in Protestant theology? How is the process by which Jospeh Smith wrote down relevations from God as scripture similar to the revelatory experience of Muhammud? How did the Missouri Experience shape the Mormons? In 1847 when the Mormons began their trek westward to Utah how widespread were other Mormon communities in the East, Midwest and in the West? What lasting traditions, institutions, artifacts and practices does Christianity enjoy today that began with Constantine? Describe what disaster occurred among the Mormons at Donner Pass? What features of the Salt Lake Valley made it ideal for Mormon settlement?