The Pivotal Decision at the 1890 General Conference
The Announcement Against Polygamy
In 1890, the Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) took a momentous step by officially renouncing the practice of polygamy, also known as plural marriage. This decision came during a General Conference held in Salt Lake City, where church leaders gathered to address the ongoing challenges posed by the United States government regarding this controversial practice. Under immense social and political pressure, particularly from the federal government, President Wilford Woodruff delivered a proclamation known as the Manifesto, which called for an end to new plural marriages.
The Context Leading to the Manifesto
The decision was far from simple; it was shaped by years of escalating tensions between the LDS Church and the U.S. government. The federal government had implemented measures against polygamy, including the Morris Act of 1887, which aimed to suppress the practice by seizing church property. Facing imminent threats, including the potential dissolution of the church itself, the Manifesto was a strategic step to ensure the church's survival and legal status.
Implications of the 1890 Decision
Changes Within the Church
The renouncement of polygamy marked a significant transformation for the LDS Church. It meant that existing polygamous marriages would remain intact, but no new unions could be formed. This effectively changed the social fabric of the church communities, pushing them towards monogamous norms and altering family structures that had been prevalent.
Broader Social Consequences
This crucial decision not only impacted members of the church but also had wider implications for society. The LDS Church sought to integrate more seamlessly into American culture, signaling a willingness to adapt and conform to societal expectations. Over time, this move paved the way for the eventual statehood of Utah in 1896 and helped foster better relations with the federal government.
Fun Fact
The Impact Beyond 1890
Interestingly, polygamy wasn't entirely eradicated after the Manifesto. Some members of the church continued to practice plural marriages secretly, leading to further divisions within the community. Robust debates on the topic persisted well into the 20th century.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on Mormon History
For those looking to delve deeper into the fascinating history of the Latter-day Saints, consider reading “The Mormon Way of Doing Business” by Jeffrey R. Holland and “Rough Stone Rolling” by Richard L. Bushman. These works provide insightful perspectives on the evolution of the church and its practices.
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