Roughing It · Chapter
Appendix B: The Mountain Meadows Massacre explained
This appendix recounts the Mountain Meadows Massacre of 1857, in which Mormon leaders, allegedly acting on a revelation from Brigham Young, orchestrated the slaughter of 120 emigrants from Missouri and Arkansas.
What happens
This appendix recounts the Mountain Meadows Massacre of 1857, in which Mormon leaders, allegedly acting on a revelation from Brigham Young, orchestrated the slaughter of 120 emigrants from Missouri and Arkansas. The Mormons, disguised as Indians, attacked the wagon train, then pretended to negotiate a truce before murdering the men, women, and children. Judge Cradlebaugh attempted to prosecute the perpetrators but faced obstruction from Mormon juries and Governor Cumming. The chapter includes a summary of evidence compiled by Mrs. C. V. Waite implicating the Mormon Church in the atrocity.
Themes in this chapter
Violence and Desperadoism
The massacre exemplifies extreme violence and lawlessness, with the Mormons using deception and brutality to murder unarmed emigrants.
Colonialism and Cultural Change
The event highlights the clash between Mormon theocratic rule and U.S. federal authority, as well as the manipulation of Native American tribes as proxies.
Characters to notice
- Brigham Young
Allegedly issued a 'revelation' commanding the massacre and later failed to report or condemn it.
- The Narrator
Presents the historical account and commentary on the massacre and its aftermath.
Key passages
“The persecutions which the Mormons suffered so long—and which they consider they still suffer in not being allowed to govern themselves—they have endeavored and are still endeavoring to repay.”
The Mormons, having endured long persecution and resentment over their lack of self-governance, have sought to retaliate.
Sets up the motive for the massacre as revenge for past wrongs.
“Thus, on the 10th day of September, 1857, was consummated one of the most cruel, cowardly and bloody murders known in our history.”
On September 10, 1857, one of the most brutal and cowardly mass murders in American history was carried out.
Condemns the massacre as a historic atrocity.