Brigham Young United Order: A Failed Experiment in Mormon Communalism

The Brigham Young United Order was a failed experiment in Mormon communalism that sought to establish a society based on shared property and cooperative labor. The Order was founded in 1874 by Brigham Young, the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church),and was intended to be a model for the future of Mormon society.

Brigham Young's United Order: A Contextual Interpretation, Volume 2, Related Anomalies and Side Issues

by Ludwig von Mises

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Language	:	English
File size	:	11165 KB
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The Order was based on the principles of Zionism, which emphasized the importance of community and cooperation. Young believed that by pooling their resources and working together, the Latter-day Saints could create a more just and equitable society. The Order was also seen as a way to protect the Latter-day Saints from outside influences and persecution.

The Order was initially successful, and by 1875 there were over 200 United Orders in operation throughout the Mormon settlements in the western United States. However, the Order soon began to face challenges.

Economic difficulties

One of the biggest challenges facing the Order was economic. The Order's communal system made it difficult to attract and retain skilled workers. Additionally, the Order's holdings were often unprofitable, and the Order was often in debt.

Internal dissent

Another challenge facing the Order was internal dissent. Some members of the Order objected to the Order's strict rules and regulations. Others were unhappy with the way the Order's resources were being managed.

Opposition from outside forces

The Order also faced opposition from outside forces. The United States government was suspicious of the Order's communal system and its potential for political power. Additionally, many non-Mormons in the western United States resented the Order's economic privileges and its influence in local affairs.

In 1896, the LDS Church dissolved the United Order. The Order had been a failure, but it had also been a valuable learning experience for the Latter-day Saints. The Order's experience taught the Latter-day Saints the importance of individual initiative and economic independence.

Legacy

The Brigham Young United Order is a reminder of the challenges that religious communities face when they attempt to create their own societies. The Order's failure is a cautionary tale about the dangers of utopianism and the importance of respecting individual rights and freedoms.

The Brigham Young United Order was a failed experiment, but it is a fascinating chapter in Mormon history. The Order's experience provides valuable insights into the challenges of communal living and the importance of individual liberty.

Brigham Young's United Order: A Contextual Interpretation, Volume 2, Related Anomalies and Side Issues

by Ludwig von Mises

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11165 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	1023 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE