W. Cleon Skousen

W. Cleon Skousen (1913-2006) was an American conservative author, political theorist, and religious scholar who gained prominence during the Cold War era. His career spanned multiple fields, including law enforcement as Chief of Police in Salt Lake City and faculty positions at Brigham Young University. Skousen authored several influential works, most notably "The Naked Communist" (1958) and "The Five Thousand Year Leap" (1981). These books reflected his strong anti-communist stance and conservative interpretations of American founding principles, with "The Naked Communist" becoming particularly well-known for its detailed analysis of communist strategies and objectives. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Skousen wrote extensively on Mormon theology and its intersection with political philosophy. His religious works integrated Mormon doctrine with constitutional principles and conservative political thought, though some of his interpretations generated controversy among scholars. His influence extended beyond his death, with several of his books experiencing renewed popularity during the Tea Party movement of the late 2000s. His nephew Mark Skousen became a notable economist, while other family members continued his intellectual legacy through various political and academic pursuits.

Reader reviews indicate strong polarization regarding Skousen's works. Most reviews focus on "The 5000 Year Leap" and "The Naked Communist." Positive reviews highlight: - Clear explanations of founding principles and constitutional concepts - Documentation and research of historical sources - Ability to connect complex political ideas to everyday examples Common criticisms: - Cherry-picking historical facts to support predetermined views - Oversimplification of complex issues - Mormon religious beliefs influencing historical interpretation - Lack of academic rigor and peer review Ratings across platforms: Amazon: "5000 Year Leap" - 4.8/5 (3,800+ reviews) "The Naked Communist" - 4.7/5 (2,100+ reviews) Goodreads: "5000 Year Leap" - 4.2/5 (5,900+ ratings) "The Naked Communist" - 4.3/5 (3,200+ ratings) One recurring reader comment notes: "Whether you agree with his perspectives or not, Skousen presents his arguments in an accessible format for general readers."

The Five Thousand Year Leap (1981) An analysis of the U.S. Constitution and the principles of America's founding fathers, examining 28 fundamental beliefs the author identifies as crucial to the nation's foundation.

The Naked Communist (1958) A detailed examination of communist ideology and its potential influence in American society during the Cold War period, outlining 45 communist goals identified by the author.

The Naked Capitalist (1970) A critique of contemporary economic and political systems, analyzing the relationship between banking institutions and global political movements.

The Making of America: The Substance and Meaning of the Constitution (1985) A comprehensive study of the U.S. Constitution, examining its origins and providing clause-by-clause analysis of the document.

The First 2,000 Years (1953) A religious historical text covering Biblical events from Creation to Abraham, interpreted through a Mormon theological perspective.

Prophecy and Modern Times (1948) An examination of Biblical and Mormon prophetic texts, analyzing their potential relevance to contemporary events.

The Third Thousand Years (1964) A religious historical account covering Biblical events from Abraham to David, interpreted through a Mormon theological perspective.

The Fourth Thousand Years (1966) A continuation of the author's religious historical series, covering Biblical events from David to Christ.

Ezra Taft Benson served as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and wrote extensively about the intersection of faith, constitutional principles, and anti-communism. His works include "The Constitution: A Heavenly Banner" and "An Enemy Hath Done This," which parallel many of Skousen's themes.

Carroll Quigley was a historian whose book "Tragedy and Hope" examined power structures and international networks shaping world events. His academic work focused on comparative history and civilization development, topics that intersect with Skousen's historical analyses.

Gary Allen wrote "None Dare Call It Conspiracy" and other works examining political power structures during the Cold War era. His research into economic and political systems shared similar perspectives with Skousen's analyses of communist strategies.

Taylor Caldwell authored historical novels and non-fiction works about government power and individual liberty. Her books "A Pillar of Iron" and "Dear and Glorious Physician" explored themes of civilization and governance that complement Skousen's historical perspectives.

Francis A. Schaeffer wrote about the relationship between Christian thought and Western civilization decline. His works "How Should We Then Live?" and "A Christian Manifesto" address similar concerns about society and governance that Skousen explored from a Mormon perspective.