Brigham Young: American Moses

Brigham Young: American Moses is the definitive biography of the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Leonard J. Arrington, who served as Church Historian, crafted this comprehensive work using newly discovered diaries, letters, and manuscripts found in the Church Administration Building. The biography traces Young's path from his early life through his conversion to Mormonism and eventual rise to church leadership. After Joseph Smith's death in 1844, Young guided the Mormon migration west and established a religious commonwealth in Utah Territory. As a leader, Young shaped both religious doctrine and practical matters like irrigation, industry, and settlement patterns across the American West. The book examines his approach to governance, family life, and the development of Mormon institutions. This biography offers a balanced view of a complex religious figure whose influence extended far beyond his own faith. The work illuminates broader themes of 19th century American expansion, religious freedom, and the intersection of church and state.

Readers consistently note this biography presents Brigham Young in a balanced, human way rather than as either a hero or villain. The book draws heavily from primary sources and Young's personal papers. Readers appreciated: - Clear chronological structure - Focus on Young's administrative and organizational abilities - Discussion of his business ventures and practical leadership - Inclusion of both successes and failures - Accessible writing style for non-academic readers Common criticisms: - Limited coverage of controversial aspects like Mountain Meadows Massacre - Not enough detail about Young's family life and wives - Some readers wanted more historical context about the Mormon migration west Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (517 ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (86 ratings) "Presents Young as a real person rather than a caricature" - Goodreads reviewer "Strong on facts but sometimes dry in presentation" - Amazon reviewer "The definitive biography but glosses over some difficult topics" - LibraryThing review

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🔸 The book draws from a treasure trove of personal documents found in the Church Administration Building that had never been accessed by previous biographers 🔸 Leonard J. Arrington served as the first professional historian appointed as the LDS Church Historian (1972-1982), giving him unique expertise and access for writing this biography 🔸 Brigham Young led one of the largest organized migrations in American history, guiding approximately 70,000 Mormon pioneers across 1,300 miles to settle in Utah 🔸 The biography was published in 1985 and won the Mormon History Association Best Book Award and the Evans Biography Award 🔸 The title "American Moses" draws a parallel between Young's leadership of the Mormon exodus to Utah and the biblical Moses leading the Israelites to the promised land - both involved desert wanderings and establishing new societies