Under the Prophet in Utah; the National Menace of a Political Priestcraft

"Under the Prophet in Utah; the National Menace of a Political Priestcraft" by Frank J. Cannon and Harvey J. O'Higgins shines a light on the complex relationship between the Mormon Church and the United States government during a time of intense scrutiny and change. The book paints a picture of life in Utah under the leadership of Joseph F. Smith, exploring how religious power translated into political control and impacted the lives of both Mormons and non-Mormons alike. Through the eyes of Frank J. Cannon, the narrative starts with personal experiences escaping government persecution while the early Mormon leaders grappled with adapting to the changing laws of the land. This intimate perspective sets the stage for a broader examination of the challenges, like the practice of polygamy, faced by a community striving to maintain its identity while navigating the demands of a nation.