Brigham Young a historical figure who has had a very complex legacy. He was a religious leader who lead pioneers across the United States which also included his involvement in key events in the area where Salt Lake City was developed. There have been several depictions of Young, some in film that portray his life and leadership in different lights. His position as a Mormon leader as well as being involved in the government brings on debate, analysis and controversy.
Brigham Young: Early Life and Leadership
Brigham Young took over the leadership of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints after Joseph Smith was killed. His actions have shaped many events that are now recorded as American History.
Migration to the West
He led Mormon pioneers across the American Midwest until they settled in the Salt Lake City area. Young had an intent on creating a community where his people could live without persecution which was often the main objective in the history of religious practices and movements.
Brigham Young and The Utah War
The Utah War was created when conflict took place between The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with the federal government. This is often cited to when Young resisted the military occupation of his home along with President James Buchanan's attempt to remove Young from his governmental leadership in the area.
Key Events of the Conflict
Young made it a point to protect the rights of the Mormon people and took an approach of resisting the control that came from the U.S. government. All of this created actions that sparked events like the destruction and rebuilding of Salt Lake City along with a new dynamic in political history.
The Mountain Meadows Massacre
The event of the Mountain Meadows Massacre is now cited as an infamous and tragic part of The Utah War. This violent event became a point of controversy when Latter-Day Saint militiamen killed a wagon train of emigrants under guise of a safe passage with also including Paiute people as perpetrators . The events of this massacre were a tragic moment in history which is still something that many discuss and dissect.
Brigham Young's Role in the Massacre
There has been continued speculation in whether or not Brigham Young had personally directed the masscre. It has been found that while Young did cause a culture of intolerance and encouraged Native Americans to raid areas he also said, “Let them go in peace”. This indicates a different look into what he personally desired which also contradicts some interpretations.
Historical Perspectives and Depictions
There are new shows which seek to explore both sides of historical events and include both religious conflict and personal stories of historical context as is noted with " American Primeval " which is a dramatization of the events that took place during this time with real life leaders shown with specific traits and motives that may be a form of hyperbole.
Portrayal of Brigham Young
The depiction of Brigham Young has had various interpretations as seen in multiple projects in popular culture such as the TV series American Primeval. His leadership style and approach during his role in the Utah War have been depicted as a more controlling religious zealot who is devoted to preserving his control over his followers. There has been much focus on how much influence religion may or may not have with politics.
Interpretations of Events
There are numerous takes on many elements with all events. Most opinions from these shows use methods from personal experience or political agenda to deliver interpretations. With shows which explore these historical moments there is a lot of room for debate regarding the historical perspective.
The Conflict With Viewers and Creative Delivery
While some prefer a clear look at how something may have occured others appreciate how storytelling elevates the delivery of information and this is something to consider when looking at media depictions. Many have sought more historically correct depictions while others view that liberties are taken to better develop a story.
"American Primeval's" Depiction
This particular show tries to focus on both sides of conflicts. The series focuses on the chaos of human actions which can impact several groups. Some events are downplayed while showcasing new characters with stories that help highlight both their experiences as well as their motives. "American Primeval" utilizes several types of plot devices similar to previously created work.
Balancing Factionalism with History
It incorporates a theme that violence has an underlying pull that can touch multiple groups equally while balancing human desires of kindness and connections among those same groups. The themes are explored through multiple characters who all have distinct situations in what their role plays and how their journey can impact those around them.
Key Takeaways
- Brigham Young was a very influential leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints whose leadership was greatly impacted the events in Utah.
- His leadership and personality was displayed and analyzed through various interpretations by those telling his story from their own unique view.
- Young lead pioneers west while clashing with the US Federal Government which eventually led to the Utah War.
- He has had numerous depictions that vary wildly through historical analysis as well as through media and art form.
- Recent TV projects include real life characters such as Young and allow a unique blend of personal interpretation of events mixed with reality.