Subject
Utah -- Politics and government Books
Best books
Frank J. Cannon
Under the Prophet in Utah; the National Menace of a Political Priestcraft
"Under the Prophet in Utah; the National Menace of a Political Priestcraft" by Frank J. Cannon and Harvey J. O'Higgins is a historical account likely written in the early 20th century. This work delves deeply into the political and social dynamics of the Mormon Church in Utah, particularly focusing on the leadership of Joseph F. Smith and the implications of his power over the Mormon community. The book critically examines the intertwining of religious authority and political governance, portraying the Mormon hierarchy as a form of despotism affecting not only its followers but also the larger community and the United States as a whole. The opening of the book introduces a tumultuous period for the Mormons during the late 19th century, marked by persecution and the struggle for civil rights. It begins with the narrative of Frank J. Cannon as he recalls a secretive trip he took in 1888 to meet his father, George Q. Cannon, amidst a backdrop of legal raids against polygamists. The author describes the oppressive atmosphere under which the Mormons lived, with constant fear of arrest and loss of property. George Q. Cannon, a prominent leader, discusses strategies to save the community from governmental prosecution while exploring the necessity of compromising the doctrine of polygamy, indicating an internal conflict within the church. This tension between faith, leadership, and the pressing demand for legal compliance sets the stage for a broader examination of the schism between Mormon practices and federal law.
Thomas Kearns
Conditions in Utah Speech of Hon. Thomas Kearns of Utah, in the Senate of the United States
"Conditions in Utah" by Thomas Kearns is a historical account written in the early 20th century, specifically in the 1900s. This book primarily addresses the social, political, and economic conditions in Utah, particularly focusing on the influence of the Mormon Church and its leaders. Kearns, a senator from Utah, articulates his concerns regarding the church's political power and its violations of the pledges made to the United States upon Utah's admission as a state. In his speech, Kearns emphatically outlines the problematic relationship between the Mormon Church's leadership and the citizens of Utah. He criticizes the church's autocratic control over both political and business spheres, highlighting how this control oppresses the larger community and contradicts the fundamental principles of freedom and governance. Kearns calls attention to the persistence of polygamous practices despite promises made during Utah's statehood negotiations and expresses his desire for the government to intervene to ensure that its laws are upheld. He presents a compelling case for the necessity of reform in order to preserve the rights and freedoms of the citizens, emphasizing a need to separate church influence from state affairs.
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