In Pioche, Nevade [while in hiding], in April 1871, he…
![“In Pioche, Nevade [while in hiding], in April 1871, he [Philip Klingonsmith] made his affidavit regarding the massacre, the first of all who had participated to break openly the pact of silence. After acting as a witness in the first trial of Lee, he returned to Nevada... he was found dead in a…” quote by Juanita Brooks](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/1e4/juanita-brooks-33595_mormonism_in-pioche-nevade-while-in-hiding-in-apri_1606285.jpg)
““In Pioche, Nevade [while in hiding], in April 1871, he [Philip Klingonsmith] made his affidavit regarding the massacre, the first of all who had participated to break openly the pact of silence. After acting as a witness in the first trial of Lee, he returned to Nevada... he was found dead in a prospector's hole in the state of Sonora, Mexico, apparently murdered, the inference being that he had been pursued by avenging members of the Mormons and had been killed for being a traitor...””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A former participant broke a silence pact, testified, and later died likely due to retribution.
In simple terms: He broke a secret and was killed for it.
Key Takeaway
Beware the costs of breaking dangerous oaths.
Themes
betrayal
justice
revenge
Mood
somber
cautionary
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- historical research
- legal testimony
- political violence
Key Concepts
silence pact
testimony
retribution
Questions to Reflect On
- What motivates people to keep dangerous secrets?
- How can societies protect whistleblowers?
A Different Perspective
His death illustrates the lethal risk of exposing hidden crimes.