Brigham Young remains a complex and controversial figure in American history, known for his leadership of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and his role in shaping the early development of Utah. However, his legacy is also marked by his views on race and ethnicity, which were reflective of the broader societal attitudes of his time. These views, some of which are now considered deeply racist, have sparked significant debate and introspection within and beyond the LDS Church.
One of the most contentious aspects of Young’s legacy is his endorsement of the “curse of Cain” doctrine. This belief, held by some early Latter-day Saint leaders, posited that people of African descent were the descendants of Cain, the biblical figure who God cursed for murdering his brother Abel. According to this interpretation, the so-called curse manifested as dark skin, is viewed as a sign of inferiority and unworthiness. In an 1852 sermon delivered in Salt Lake City, Young articulated these views, reinforcing the racial hierarchies that were prevalent in 19th-century America.
Young’s beliefs about race extended beyond Black individuals. He also expressed negative views about Indigenous peoples and other non-white groups, often describing them in terms that reflected the ethnocentric attitudes of his era. He referred to Indigenous peoples as “savages” and “barbarians,” perceiving their societies as primitive and inferior to those of white settlers. These views were not unique to Young but were shared by many of his contemporaries, both within and outside the LDS Church. Such perspectives were used to justify discriminatory policies, including the church’s prohibition on Black men receiving the priesthood—a ban that remained in place until 1978.
However, it is important to recognize that Young’s views on race were not entirely one-dimensional. While he held deeply prejudiced beliefs, he occasionally expressed sympathy for marginalized groups. For instance, he condemned the mistreatment of Indigenous peoples and encouraged members of the LDS Church to treat them with respect and kindness. These instances suggest a more nuanced, albeit inconsistent, approach to issues of race and ethnicity.
In recent decades, the LDS Church has taken significant steps to confront and repudiate its racist past. In 2013, the church issued an official statement disavowing the theories that had been used to justify the priesthood ban, explicitly rejecting the idea that skin color is a sign of divine disfavor or inferiority. The statement also acknowledged the pain caused by past policies and sought to promote healing within the church community. Beyond this formal repudiation, the church has made efforts to increase diversity and inclusivity among its members and leadership, striving to foster greater racial harmony and understanding.
Brigham Young’s legacy serves as a reminder of the complexities of historical figures and the importance of examining their actions and beliefs within their historical context. While his contributions to the development of the LDS Church and the settlement of Utah are undeniable, his views on race highlight the pervasive influence of 19th-century racial ideologies. As society continues to grapple with issues of racial inequality, reflecting on figures like Young can provide valuable insights into how historical attitudes have shaped contemporary challenges—and how institutions can evolve to address them.