Rule of law Quote by Jon Krakauer
““Alleging that the Mormons had committed a long list of treasonous acts, in May 1857 Buchanan dispatched a contingent of federal officials to restore the rule of law in Utah, including a new territorial governor to replace Brigham Young. More ominously, the new president ordered twenty-five hundred heavily armed soldiers to escort these officials into Salt Lake City and subdue the Saints if necessary. For all intents and purposes, the United States had declared war on the Mormons.””
About This Quote
Source Historical Account: The Utah War, 1857–1858, United States government actions, 1857
The U.S. government prepared a military response to perceived rebellion by the Mormons, effectively declaring war.
In simple terms: Federal officials sent troops to Utah to enforce law against the Mormons.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the impact of political decisions on religious communities.
Themes
conflict
government
religion
Mood
tense
historical
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- historical research
- civil rights discussions
- military strategy planning
Key Concepts
political power
civil-military relations
Questions to Reflect On
- What were the Mormons’ responses to the federal troops?
- How do such confrontations shape national policy?
A Different Perspective
The description may lack perspective of the Mormons themselves.
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