The Mormon War

What was the Mormon War

The Mormon War (or Utah War) was a small scale war between the Mormons and the US government. Most of its casualties were a result of the Mountain Meadows Massacre.

When was the Mormon War?

The Mormon War was from 1857 to 1858.

What caused the Mormon War?

There were a number of causes of the Mormon War.

• ❖ There were growing tensions between Mormons and pioneers travelling through Utah.
• ❖ Most Americans objected to the Mormons' practice of polygamy.
• ❖ The US Government believed that Mormon leaders were running Utah along religious lines, supported by a paramilitary organisation called the Danites. It was felt that this undermined and obstructed the laws of the United States.
• ❖ President Buchanan wanted to replace Brigham Young as governor of Utah with a non-Mormon governor. He sent 2,500 troops to Utah, to protect the new governor and prevent trouble.
• ❖ On hearing about the approaching army, Brigham Young raised the local militia to defend Utah.