Mormon Migration West: Religious Freedom Quest — Reading Comprehension

The Mormon migration west in the mid-1800s was a major event in U.S. history, driven by the search for religious freedom and safety. Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly called Mormons, faced intense persecution in states like Ohio, Missouri, and Illinois. Their beliefs and practices, such as new forms of worship and strong community organization, were often misunderstood or feared by others. This created ongoing social and political conflict with their neighbors, leading to violence and forced expulsions.

One major cause of the Mormon migration was the murder of their founder, Joseph Smith, in 1844 while he was jailed in Illinois. After this tragedy, a new leader, Brigham Young, emerged. He believed that the only solution to the repeated attacks was to leave the United States and find a place where Mormons could practice their faith without interference. As Brigham Young wrote, "We are determined...to seek a home where the wicked will cease from troubling and the weary will find rest." This primary source quote shows the determination and hope that guided the migration.

The journey west was extremely difficult. The Mormons traveled over 1,000 miles, crossing rivers, plains, and mountains. They left behind homes, businesses, and property, knowing they might never return. Along the way, they faced harsh weather, disease, food shortages, and threats from both humans and nature. Still, more than 70,000 people made the trek between 1846 and 1869. Some used handcarts instead of wagons, pulling their belongings themselves to save money. The migration required great cooperation and leadership.

Perspectives on the Mormon migration were complex. Mormons saw themselves as victims of unfair treatment, seeking a safe haven. Many non-Mormons, however, viewed the group as outsiders who failed to blend in and worried about their growing political power. Some government officials even tried to stop the migration, fearing the creation of a separate Mormon territory. Meanwhile, Native American groups in the West had their own perspectives. Some saw the Mormons as intruders, while others traded or cooperated with them. The arrival of thousands of settlers changed the region's landscape and disrupted traditional ways of life.

Despite these tensions, the Mormons succeeded in building new communities in the Utah Territory, which was then part of Mexico. They established towns, farms, and irrigation systems, turning the desert into productive land. However, challenges continued. In 1857, the U.S. government sent troops in the "Utah War" to assert control over the territory, reflecting ongoing mistrust between federal authorities and Mormon leaders. Over time, the Mormons negotiated with the government and adapted some of their practices to remain in the United States.

The Mormon migration west had lasting consequences. It contributed to westward expansion and the settlement of the Great Basin region. The migration also highlights important themes in American history, such as the struggle for religious liberty, the impact of migration, and the conflicts that arise when different groups with distinct beliefs and goals must share land and resources.

Interesting Fact: The Mormon Trail became one of the most organized and well-traveled routes to the West, used by thousands of people seeking new lives beyond the Rocky Mountains.

Who led the Mormons west?

What state did Mormons leave after persecution?

Which year did Joseph Smith die?

Why did Mormons migrate west?

What was a major challenge on the journey?

What is the significance of the Mormon Trail?

The Mormons built irrigation systems in Utah. True or false?

What does 'persecution' mean?