The Mormon Experience: A History of the Latter-day Saints

by Leonard J. Arrington, Davis Bitton

The best history of the Latter-day Saints addressed to a general audience now includes a new preface, an epilogue, and a bibliographical after-word.

Genres: History, Religion, Lds, Mormonism, Nonfiction, Christianity, American History

456 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1979

About the author

The first professionally trained official LDS Church Historian.

Reviews

[James Madsen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a groundbreakingly objective history of the LDS Church for its time and led to problems for the author, the official Church historian. It remains one of the most accessible and objective accounts of Mormon history.

[Ross · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is an effort by two LDS historians to write a comprehensive history of the church that could be used as a college text or for those interested in a one volume study of the church. It is somewhat dated having been written in the 1970's or 80's. I really enjoyed it because although it was an academic study they included lots of anecdotes from journals and personal histories to illustrate the topics being discussed. Although there wasn't a lot of new information, they organized the book around themes and not just a straight chronological history. The themes covered topics like the 19th century ward and women in the church. The authors were both professional historians and tried to maintain an evenhanded approach in addressing the issues while using their church membership to provide insights that non-members might not have. I would recommend it for someone interested in an a basic retelling of church history from an academic perspective.

[Mike · Rating 4 out of 5]

Probably the most influential book in my conversion to Mormonism, however, it misses the mark in providing an objective look at Mormon history, culture, and religious experience. It does not include an overview of the Book of Abraham in its historical review - a book of scripture to Mormons that is quite readily demonstrated to be fraudulent and lacking in authenticity.

[Abbey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Detailed history of the Mormon church from its inception to ‘modern’ day (1990’s). However, the authors glaze over the serious issues of racism and homophobia in the church, almost glorifying sad history such as placing indigenous children with white families. The writing style was dry and made it difficult to read.

[Steven H · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE THEN-‘CHURCH HISTORIANS’ PROVIDE A ONE-VOLUME OVERVIEW

Leonard James Arrington (1917-1999) was the Church Historian from 1972-1982, and the Director of the Joseph Fielding Smith Institute for Church History from 1982-1986; he was also the founder of the Mormon History Association. (Reportedly, he was removed from his post as Church Historian for being too ‘frank/honest’ in his accounts of history.) Davis Bitton (1930-2007) was a professor of history at the University of Utah, the former Assistant Church Historian, and former president of the Mormon History Association.

Arrington wrote in the Preface to this 1979 book, “In … 1967… I received a letter from Alfred A. Knopf in which he suggested the need for a reliable and scholarly one-volume history of the Mormons, and asked if I would consider writing one. I replied that I would be interested … if I could obtain the permission of the [LDS Church]… to use its archives without restriction. Such permission was immediately granted by the First Presidency… I discovered such a wealth of previously unused materials in the LDS Archives that I accumulated mountains of undigested notes … When I was named Church Historian of the [LDS Church] in 1972, I was given the opportunity of helping to establish policies connected with the use and publication of historical materials… Seeing that my own administrative responsibilities were too great to permit me to complete this volume, I asked the Assistant Church Historian, Davis Bitton, to assist me in the task.”

They both wrote in the Introduction, “Mormonism provides a remarkable case study of the growth and development of a new religion---the only major religion with American roots… Mormonism is more than a religious movement; it is also a unique American subculture… There has been no single work that professors and students of American civilization and religion have been able to read and recommend as an introduction to the Mormons… Another reason a new book on the Mormons seems justified … is the considerable activity of scholars---archivists and historians… especially during the past 5-10 years.” (Pg. xi-xiii)

“A final word: Both authors of the present work are believing and practicing members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As such, we hope we have been able to discern some features of Mormon history from the inside that would elude the outside visitor, however conscientious. At the same time … we have sought to understand as scholars of any faith or no faith would seek to understand… We have tried to take advantage of our empathy with our fellow Mormons, while preserving proper scholarly objectivity… To the non-Mormon reader… we have tried to be fair and have called them as we have seen them. To the Mormon reader, who might be surprised at our frank recognition of problems within the faith, at our willingness to assign blame to Latter-day Saints, and at our sincere goodwill to the historical opponents of Mormonism, the answer is really the same.” (Pg. xiii)

“There is one other aspect of our approach that deserves comment: Mormon writers have sometimes felt uneasy in acknowledging secular influences on developments in Mormon history. Yet it is readily apparent that church leaders have been, and still are, particularly sensitive to the movements and conditions of their times. In that awareness they have asked for and claimed heavenly inspiration for statements and programs… we see no necessary incompatibility between believing that LDS authorities benefit from divine inspiration and recognizing that they also have their eyes open to what is going on in the world generally.” (Pg. xiv)

In Chapter 1, they report that “The Book of Mormon (named for Moroni’s father, an ancient American soldier-historian) was printed in 1829-30… Included… was the testimony of Oliver Cowdery, Martin Harris, and David Whitmer… that they had seen the gold plates and knew by divine witness that the translation of them was correct. Eight other witnesses---members of the Whitmer and Smith families, and Hiram Page---also testified to having seen and handled the plates. After displaying the plates to the witnesses, Smith gave them… back to Moroni. The reliability of these testimonies has naturally been questioned. All of the three original witnesses and several of the others later left the church. But despite differences with [Joseph] Smith, all of the witnesses remained confident of the ancient origin and divinely aided translation of the book. Before their deaths, Harris and Cowdery both returned to membership in the Utah church and strongly reaffirmed their original witness.” (Pg. 14)

They explain, “more than a few new members [of the Church] received what to them was a heavenly manifestation or personal assurance of the truth of the Book of Mormon… that then impelled them to accept the claims of the prophet and his successors. Personal ‘testimony’ of Mormon converts---basically a claim that they ‘knew in their hearts’ that the church was true---flowed from individual encounters with the Divine, but to those who did not share the experience, they seemed inadequate and naive… it has been suggested that lower-class people … might have used Mormonism as the pretense for migrating… [to] a new location without necessarily having much regard for the religion… But … these explanations are not sufficient for a phenomenon so complex.” (Pg. 23)

They note, “Anti-Mormon writers of the past century did not portray all Saints as villains. Their explanation was that the mass of Mormons were sincere dupes victimized by a sinister group of leaders. While the evidence of sincerity on the part of Mormon authorities is overwhelming, it is undeniable that Mormon leaders did exert an immense influence over their followers.” (Pg. 42)

They suggest, “In the founding of Mormonism the idea that the ‘elect’ or converted should gather together was hardly surprising… Mormons thus tended to see themselves as modern children of Israel, chosen to raise a holy city to the Lord… The call to gather to Zion was at once a religious principle, a test of faith, and a lure. Most obviously, the doctrine that each convert join the main body of the church was presented as a heavenly commandment.” (Pg. 127-128)

They acknowledge, “The admission that polygamy introduced trials is a clue that it often led to heartache and suffering… in the 1850s-1880s the Mormons were ‘voting with their feet’ by declining to enter into polygamous relations in overwhelming numbers. In the 1880s they voted overwhelmingly in favor of a proposed state constitution that would prohibit polygamy… In emphasizing how small was the percentage of Mormons who were directly involved in polygamy it is important to recall that all the central church leaders were polygamists.” (Pg. 202-204)

They report, “The enforcement of the Edmunds-Tucker Act… forced the church to discontinue the performance of plural marriages. At the same time… the church abandoned its traditional promotion of cooperative or group economic enterprises… and in general adopted a ‘line’ consistent with the dominant policies of the nation… But the Mormons sought to preserve as many of their traditional goals as national sentiment would permit. While the church yielded on … polygamy, economic separatism, and political theocracy, the imagination and intelligence of its response perhaps deserve the term ‘creative adjustment’ rather than such customary terms as ‘accommodation’ or ‘surrender.’” (Pg. 243) They add, “The church was, in effect, reoriented to incorporate the standards of social, political, and economic behavior imposed by American society, while at the same time it attempted to retain as much of the ‘Kingdom’ outlook as possible.” (Pg. 251)

They point out, “By deciding not to decide the evolution question, [President Joseph F.] Smith averted a head-on confrontation between the newly-educated Saints who found in it support for Mormon doctrine and those of a more traditional persuasion who perceived in the theory the seeds of apostasy… [which] had threatened to undermine the authority of the apostles and prophets as sole adjudicators of church doctrine.” (Pg. 260)

They state, “There is a standard interpretation of the time between 1890 and 1918 that sees them as years of accommodation… According to this interpretation, the … Kingdom was relinquished in order that the church could survive as an ecclesiastical institution with its own unique theology and religious practices… such an interpretation … explains much about how Mormons got where they are today and why they differ in important respects from their predecessors of the past century.” (Pg. 261)

They lament, “The much-discussed ‘breakdown’ of the family in society at large has had its impact within the church. Numbers of children born per family have decreased; age at marriage has increased; many mothers are working outside the home. If… Latter-day Saints have had a better record than the national average… they reflect the same trends with some kind of time lag… when all divorces are considered together, there seems to be very little advantage. Clearly divorce is … on the rise within the church, as elsewhere.” (Pg. 287)

They explain, “One of the activities for which Mormons are famous is genealogical research… Mormons believe… Persons who have died without hearing the restored gospel can have [baptismal] ordinance performed for them vicariously in the temples. Such work… must be done individually… Living Saints feel a strong responsibility for their ancestors. To identify them by name and date it is necessary to do genealogical research.” (Pg. 303)

This indeed an excellent one-volume history of the Latter-day Saints.

[Chris Power · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a general history of the LDS Church, this book does a pretty good job. If you're looking for insight into the LDS origins of challenging doctrines and history, this will only skim the surface. There were many times where it got right up to the point some of the trickier issues surrounding Mormonism and then would dismiss them as not important, or rather, interesting to know, but one for the "ask in the afterlife" bookshelf.

One of the more fascinating parts for me in this book was how the early Church viewed the American Indians and the efforts the Church made to convert them to Mormonism. In short, the Church's view has changed substantially from the time The Book of Mormon first came into existence until now.

[Nora · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very interesting and informative book. I think it is a book that can be appreciated whether you're Mormon, a friend of a Mormon, or just someone whose interested in finding out what/who Mormons are. It was published in the 70's so it obviously doesn't bring you to the present day, but still worth the read.

[Alex · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good for the early history of the church up to their expulsion from Illinois and journey to the Salt Lake City area. But the author washed over some of the less pleasant aspects of the Church history (no mention of Mountain Meadows, and very little discussion of early restrictions on non-whites in leadership). Book is a bit dated.

[Shane · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought it was a good overview of the history of the Mormon faith, especially considering it's somewhat dated having been written decades ago. Definitely worth reading if you're a history buff, especially of the settling of the west and the LDS people in general.

[Marcus Jensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned of this book in reading a biography of the co-author, Leonard Arrington. I think Arrington and Bitton well succeeded in creating an important and credible reference work that covers the history of the people, events, and forces involved in establishing an influential and modern church. Moreover, it succeeds in doing this in a fair and unbiased manner. Being professional historians, Arrington and Bitton naturally endeavored to write a historians' history of the Mormons.

Being a historian's product, the presentation is purposefully unemotional and dry. The citations to other reference sources are prolific. Both authors have their special areas of expertise and they use this book as a vehicle to exhibit their expertise by expounding on the economic foundations of the early pioneer communities and on the role of many influential pioneer personalities within the Utah region. They cover not only historical events, but also delve into the culture and psychology of the church members, helping the reader understand what drove those members to sacrifice so much to unite in a community centered around their religious convictions. They also address the evolution of the Mormon experience over the first 150 years of the church's existence, hinting at the changes still to come.

For the Mormon reader, particularly those with pioneer ancestry, this work will be less dry and scholarly, as those readers will recognize the human motive and toll behind every event and effort described by the authors. It may be hard for non-Mormons to relate to the Mormon experience, the sacrifice and selfless labor required to survive merciless persecution by detractors and by officials of the government and to overcome the severity of the land and climate of their final refuge. But all the underlying factors are laid out in this work for the reader to absorb and ponder.

I won't disagree that the book skims over some aspects of Mormon history. That is inevitable in a book trying to cover a complex topic over such a broad time period. but the allegation of some critics that certain unsavory events or practices are ignored is not valid. For example, a commenter named Alex alleging that there is no mention of the Mountain Meadows massacre is wrong. The topic is covered over the course of two pages (167-8) and is even listed in the index.

I consider this to be a great book. Were it not for its dry presentation, I would have scored the book with five stars, but that should not be construed as a failing, rather as a compliment to the authors, who succeeded in using their Mormon membership and insights as an asset in presenting an impartial and truthful portrayal of the religion and its people.

[Brannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book; it introduced me to a lot of Utah history that I was not previously familiar with. It also covered some interesting history of the Relief Society.

[Jenalyn · Rating 2 out of 5]

So very dry. But interesting points.

[Samuel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alfred A. Knopf requested that Arrington write a one-volume history of the Mormons in 1967; he did after receiving permission from the Mormon Church to unrestricted access to their archives. Eventually published with Arrington (Church Historian since Jan 1972) and Bitton (Assistant Church Historian).

This book focuses on the “turbulent nineteenth-century saga of the Saints,” including Joseph Smith’s founding stories, persecution in the Midwest, the great exodus/trek to Utah, colonization of the Great Basin by Brigham Young, and struggles with the federal government (especially polygamy). It also includes some reflections on how Mormonism transitioned into the twentieth century as well as addressed for the first time in greater detail subjects such as the role of women in Mormonism, the Mormon ward (organization/community), the Mormon group character (unity/diversity), and the Mormon attitude toward blacks. Controversial subjects including the authenticity of the Book of Mormon, the early life of JS, and possible reasons for the church’s enduring vigor/dynamism. It has been called the “standard one-volume history of the institution and its people.” From my experience reading it in 2015, it is still a surprisingly relevant and useful introductory summation of the diverse and sprawling history and culture of Mormonism.

Intro: “the story of a religious minority, generally unpopular and often harassed….friction between the Mormons and their neighbors tells us something about American society and the limits of religious tolerance” (xi).

Part One: The Early Church—JS Founding to BY Exodus to Utah
“The unique feature of Mormonism’s appeal was its combination of theological intelligibility and spiritual reassurance with a specific program offering material and emotional satisfaction in the present. When many motives coincide, the results are powerful” (43).

Part Two: The Kingdom in the West—Utah Settlement to Statehood 1896
“From the beginning and throughout the pioneer period and the period of proliferating programs in the generation following Brigham Young’s death the ward was the center of Mormon worship, religious learning, humanitarian service, recreation, and friendships and associations. Since it was staffed by lay members of the congregation…the ward provided numerous types of activity and responsibility to every willing member. Speaking, teaching, acting,, playing a musical instrument…contributed tot he growth and enlarged self-confidence….The ward was far more than a place for listening to a sermon each Sunday. For Latter-day Saints it was an arena for growth, a network of personal relationships, and a focal point of identity. It was a little commonwealth” (219).

Part Three: The Modern Church—Institutional Transitions to Modernity
“The adjustment required continued adaptation, formulation of new programs, flexibility, and pragmatism. Moreover, adjustment did not mean a total melting into the national patterns. It is still a distinctive church, not liberal Protestant, not fundamentalist Protestant, not Catholic. In short, the accommodation thesis is partially correct, but inadequate as an overall interpretation of the status of Mormonism in the twentieth century. By 1910 educational, social, and cultural programs sponsored by the church were serving as a hedge against secular influences and reinforcing the sense of community among the believers. Though shorn of its overt political and economic power and clothed in twentieth-century garb, the restored church established by Joseph Smith survived—and flourished” (261).

“Has Mormonism, then been able to meet the needs of its people in the contemporary world but at the same time retain its most basic values? While it may be argued that its complex organization, multiple programs, and paternalistic atmosphere attempt to shield its your from modern realities, it may also be true that these very things help combat the social deterioration wrought by current forces [i.e. modernity]….Changes come frequently in methods, organization, and programs. But the goals remain—to produce sons and daughters of God who will strive to emulate His creativity, intelligence, and love. Despite its past travail and present challenges, Mormonism clearly remains a vibrant force in the lives of its members” (335).

[Dr. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Neither faithful nor faithless, this is probably one of the most "balanced" approaches to LDS history from a "Modern" historical perspective. It is not revisionist history, yet it does throw more question than light on some issues. Helpful for historians, but NOT for those without the specific training of this field.

[Erik · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good balanced historical and sociological overview of Mormonism. Specifically I enjoyed the early Utah history because I have not really read much about that time period yet. I would recommend it for someone who wants an academic understanding of Mormonism. However, it was a bit dry and about three decades old so some of the commentary is a bit dated.

[Emily]

I also own this one but haven't gotten past the first chapter, which I read a couple years ago when I bought it. Looks facinating, good reviews, fat book.

[Joe Spencer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Helpful overview of Mormon history as a whole, though I'll confess I find Arrington's prose a bit dry.

[Markii · Rating 4 out of 5]

great author, good read.

[Ann Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good history. Pub in the late 1970s. Interesting to feel that events I lived through are now considered historical.

[Jeff Crosby · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good general history.

[Frances · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very pro-Mormon so not objective view point, but some very interesting information.