King of Confidence

The King of Confidence chronicles James Strang, a 19th century Mormon leader who declared himself king of a small island in Lake Michigan. Through extensive research and historical records, Miles Harvey reconstructs the story of this charismatic figure who built a religious community and proclaimed divine authority. Against the backdrop of 1840s America, the book traces Strang's transformation from a small-town lawyer into a self-proclaimed prophet and monarch. The narrative examines his methods of amassing followers, establishing a theocratic kingdom, and maintaining power through a combination of persuasion and force. Harvey places Strang's story within the broader context of antebellum America's religious fervor, westward expansion, and social upheaval. The work draws from letters, diaries, newspaper accounts, and court documents to present a complete picture of this unique historical moment. Through Strang's rise and reign, the book explores universal themes of faith, power, and human susceptibility to manipulation. The story raises questions about the nature of belief and the thin line between prophet and confidence man in American history.

Readers praise Harvey's detailed research and ability to bring 1840s Mormon history to life through the story of James Strang. Many note the book reads like a thriller despite being non-fiction. Reviews highlight the parallels drawn between historical religious fraud and modern-day scams. Readers appreciate: - Rich historical context and period details - Clear explanations of complex religious/political dynamics - Engaging narrative style - Focus on lesser-known Mormon history Common criticisms: - Pacing slows in middle sections - Too many tangential historical details - Occasional repetition of facts Ratings: Goodreads: 3.93/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (300+ ratings) Sample reader comments: "Reads like a true crime page-turner" - Goodreads "Gets bogged down with excessive background information" - Amazon "Fascinating look at how charismatic leaders can deceive followers" - LibraryThing

The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson A true crime narrative set in 1893 Chicago weaves together the stories of a serial killer and the creation of the World's Fair, capturing the same intersection of charismatic deception and American ambition found in King of Confidence.

Prophet's Prey by Sam Brower This investigation into FLDS leader Warren Jeffs chronicles how a religious leader used manipulation and faith to build a criminal empire, paralleling James Strang's methods of control and deception.

Under the Banner of Heaven by Jon Krakauer The examination of Mormon fundamentalism and its connection to violence presents themes of religious manipulation and power that echo the dynamics in Strang's colony.

The Lost City of Z by David Grann The story of explorer Percy Fawcett's obsessive quest in the Amazon reveals how conviction and charisma can lead to the creation of alternate realities, similar to Strang's kingdom-building.

The Ghost Map by Steven Berlin Johnson This account of London's 1854 cholera outbreak combines medical investigation with social history, capturing the same period-specific American frontier atmosphere that contextualizes Strang's rise.

🔮 James Strang, the subject of the book, declared himself king of Beaver Island in 1850, complete with a coronation ceremony featuring a tin crown and wooden scepter. 📚 Author Miles Harvey spent nearly 10 years researching and writing the book, traveling to multiple states and sifting through thousands of historical documents. ⚔️ Strang was the only American religious leader to ever be crowned a monarch, and he maintained a private army of 150 men called "The Army of God." 🏛️ The Mormon leader's influence was so significant that he served in the Michigan State Legislature while simultaneously ruling his island kingdom. 💀 Like Joseph Smith before him, Strang met a violent end - he was assassinated in 1856 by disgruntled followers, shot in the back at point-blank range while boarding a steamship.