The Journal of Brigham: Brigham Young's Own Story in his Own Words

by Brigham Young

Here at last is Brigham Young's own story in his own words, a compilation of his first-person writings from his manuscript history. This volume destroys once and for all the popular, but false image of Brigham Young as a tough, unspiriitual colonizer who had no business calling himself a prophet of God. A very different man is found in his journal writings--a simple man who liked to work with his hands, a humble man constantly seeking guidance from his God, a strong man ready to wrestle or fight in defense of his friends, an intelligent man who could debate effectively with professors and lawyers, an affectionate man with many friends, and a loyal ma who could be depended upon by his God and his people.

223 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 1980

About the author

Brigham Young was an American leader in the Latter Day Saint movement. He was the president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) from 1847 until his death. He was also the founder of Salt Lake City and the first governor of the Utah Territory, United States. Brigham Young University was named in his honor.

Young had a variety of nicknames, among the most popular being "American Moses," (alternatively the "Modern Moses" or the "Mormon Moses") because, like the Biblical figure, Young led his followers, the Mormon pioneers, in an exodus through a desert, to what they saw as a promised land. Young was also dubbed the "Lion of the Lord" for his bold personality, and was commonly called "Brother Brigham" by Latter-day Saints.

Reviews

[Frank · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some interesting reading.

[Cnelsonquilt · Rating 4 out of 5]

I realize my rating is rather high. The reason for this is that it portrays different glimpses of Brigham Young than other books I've read about him. For the most part the entries are very short and to the point about what had occurred that day. It was interesting to read it in his own words

[Marj · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't think it's fair to rate some body's journal. It's not meant to be literature. Instead it's a person's personal reflections and experiences and is often penned quickly without thought of grammar or style. I know that sometimes I simply need to jot something down before I forget it. Considering this, I found Brigham Young 's journal to be dull, routine and uninteresting at times and incredibly fascinating at other times. I also found it to be insightful into the man, the prophet, the challenges of his position and the struggles of moving thousands of Latter-Day Saints away from the persecution in Nauvoo and across hundreds of miles to the Salt Lake valley. It also increased my gratitude for the sacrifices made by him and those who made this journey and paved the way for the many gifts and blessings I enjoy because of them.