The Mormons (jan 1, 1831 – jan 1, 1847)

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1831- Kirtland
The Mormons were successful in founding a bank, but the economic crisis of 1837 caused bankruptcy and all the money invested was lost. The Mormons were blamed and driven away.
1837- Missouri
The Mormons were disliked as they were friendly to slaves and Indians and encouraged people to join the religion. People were scared that the Mormon religion would take over America. They issued an extermination order against them and they were forced to leave.
1839- Nauvoo
The Mormons ran Nauvoo as an independent state and were generally successful. Smith introduced polygamy in 1844, but this was met with opposition from both within and without the religions. Smith was killed by a mob in 1845 when he announced he would run for President. Brigham Young became the new leader.
1846-47- Great Salt Lake
Young decided to move the Mormon west so they could avoid persecution. He carefully planned logistics of the journey and sent a pioneering band ahead to make the trail accessible and planted crops along the way. On their journey, Young insisted on regular rest and strict discipline and successfully migrated thousands west. On reaching Salt Lake, Young organised irrigation systems, crops and production of goods and created an entirely self-sufficient community.

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