Historical Events tagged with "mormon"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Utah becomes the 45th U.S. state

January 4th, 1896 129 years ago

Utah was admitted as the 45th state to the United States, fulfilling a long wait since its settlement by Mormon pioneers in 1847. The process for statehood began after significant population growth and contributions to the economy, particularly through agriculture and mining. Despite earlier denials due to issues like polygamy, persistent efforts led to Congress approving statehood. On this date, the formal announcement was made in Washington, D.C., and Utah's admission marked an important step in its evolution from a territory to a full-fledged state.

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Education & Academia

Founding of Brigham Young University

October 16th, 1875 149 years ago

Brigham Young University was founded in Provo, Utah, as a result of the vision of Brigham Young, the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The university's establishment aimed to provide a higher education institution aligned with the faith's principles. Initially called the Brigham Young Academy, the school focused on providing a quality education to young members of the church and the growing community in Utah. This institution has grown into one of the largest private universities in the United States, known for its strong emphasis on religious values and community service.

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Crime & Law

Mormon Settlers and Paiutes Attack Pioneers

September 11th, 1857 167 years ago

In September 1857, a group of Mormon settlers, aided by local Paiute tribesmen, ambushed a wagon train of 120 pioneers traveling through Mountain Meadows in Utah. The settlers, motivated by a mix of fear, suspicion of the travelers, and recent tensions from the Utah War, believed the pioneers were a threat. Over the course of several days, the attackers killed most of the pioneers, claiming their goods and covering up the massacre. The event has since been shrouded in controversy and debate over responsibility.

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Religion & Philosophy

Mormons Depart Iowa City for Westbound Journey

June 9th, 1856 168 years ago

Five hundred Mormons departed from Iowa City, Iowa, in a mass migration towards their new settlement in Utah. The group, part of a larger movement driven by the belief in establishing a promised land, was organized to traverse the Mormon Trail. This departure was notable for the sheer number of individuals involved and the extensive planning that had gone into ensuring safe passage. The immigrants sought to escape persecution and find a place to practice their faith freely, illustrating the challenges faced by the Mormon community during this period.

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Exploration & Discovery

Brigham Young Leads Pioneers into Salt Lake Valley

July 24th, 1847 177 years ago

Brigham Young, leading a group of 148 Mormon pioneers, reached the Salt Lake Valley after a long trek of 17 months, marking the beginning of a significant settlement. The journey took multiple routes through challenging terrains, driven by the desire for a new home where they could practice their faith freely. Upon arrival, Young famously declared, 'This is the right place,' signaling the future establishment of Salt Lake City and a critical moment in the expansion of the Mormon community.

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Religion & Philosophy

Mormon Pioneers Begin Their Westward Journey

February 4th, 1846 179 years ago

The first group of Mormon pioneers set out from Nauvoo, Illinois, on their journey west to Salt Lake Valley. Led by Brigham Young, they faced the challenges of relocation due to increasing tensions in their home state. Over time, they aimed to find a new land where they could practice their faith freely and build a thriving community.

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Religion & Philosophy

Leadership of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Confirmed

August 8th, 1844 180 years ago

The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles was reaffirmed as the leading body of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with Brigham Young at the helm following the death of Joseph Smith. This announcement solidified Young's role as a key leader during a critical transition period for the church. The confirmation took place during a meeting in Nauvoo, Illinois, where church leaders convened to discuss the future direction of the organization amid uncertainty after Smith's assassination.

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Religion & Philosophy

Formation of the Original Quorum of Twelve Apostles

February 14th, 1835 190 years ago

In Kirtland, Ohio, the original Quorum of the Twelve Apostles was formally organized, consisting of twelve leaders chosen to guide and support the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This pivotal moment solidified the church's leadership structure, ensuring expansion and missionary work. The apostles were ordained by Joseph Smith, the church founder, and provided spiritual governance and direction to the emerging membership.

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