The Extermination Order of 1838
Lilburn Boggs and the Context of the Order
The Extermination Order, officially known as Executive Order 44, was issued by Missouri Governor Lilburn Boggs on October 27, 1838. This order directed the expulsion of Mormons from the state of Missouri due to rising tensions and conflicts between the Mormon settlers and the local non-Mormon population. The tensions were rooted in cultural differences, economic competition, and conflicting religious beliefs, which culminated in acts of violence that escalated throughout the year.
The Impact of the Extermination Order
The ramifications of the Extermination Order were devastating for the Mormon community. It gave legal sanction to violence against Mormons, leading to widespread harassment, forced evacuations, and even deaths. Families were forcibly removed from their homes, and many fled to seek refuge in neighboring states. This event marked a significant turning point in the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, deeply influencing its future development and migration patterns.
Responses and Consequences Following the Order
The Mormon Exodus and Aftermath
In the wake of the Extermination Order, Mormons faced an urgent need to relocate. Many were displaced from their settlements in places like Far West and were forced to seek safety in places such as Nauvoo, Illinois. This drastic migration not only affected the lives of the Mormons but also had long-lasting implications for their community structure, religious practices, and demographic distribution.
Legacy of the Extermination Order
Today, the Extermination Order is recognized as a grave injustice in American history. It serves as a stark reminder of the religious persecutions faced by minority groups. In the years that followed, the state of Missouri formally rescinded the order, but the historical scars it left continue to resonate within the Mormon community and serve as a testament to the struggles for religious freedom in America.
Fun Fact
Constitutional Resilience Against Persecution
Despite the harshness of the Extermination Order, the Mormon community demonstrated remarkable resilience, continuing to grow and thrive in new territories, eventually leading to the establishment of Utah as a state.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on The Extermination Order
For those interested in further exploring this subject, consider reading “The Mormon Wars: A History of the Conflict Between Mormons and Non-Mormons in Missouri” and “The Extermination Order: The Boundless History of the Order against Mormons” for comprehensive insights.
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