When the Mormons established their theocratic city of Nauvoo on the banks of the Mississippi in 1839, they made self-defense a priority, having encountered persecution, violence, and forcible expulsion elsewhere. Organized under Illinois law, the Nauvoo Legion was a city militia made up primarily of Latter-day Saints. This comprehensive work on the history, structure, and purpose of the Nauvoo Legion traces its unique story from its founding to the Mormon exodus in 1846.

An American construct in design, appearance, and function, the Nauvoo Legion quickly became one of America's largest--and most feared--militias. The authors describe its origins, daily activities, and general conduct, including parades, sham battles, uniforms, and military operations. And they also present a new interpretation of the Legion's essential purpose and character. Drawing upon overlooked state militia records and recently discovered archival material, they identify the thousands of citizen soldiers who served.

Despite the nominal authority of the Illinois governor, the Nauvoo Legion was led by Mormon Prophet Joseph Smith. As the militia grew in strength and military prowess, neighboring non-Mormons grew wary. Soon, local fears led to violence and the killing of Smith and his brother, Hyrum, in 1844. When the Nauvoo Charter was revoked, the militia no longer enjoyed legal status and assumed a distinctly different role in Mormon affairs until it was reconstituted after the Mormon emigration to Utah.

Impeccably researched and honestly told, this groundbreaking study fills a major gap in Latter-day Saint church history and adds a significant chapter to the annals of American militias.

This best-selling guide will help you get to grips with the larger themes and issues behind historical study, while also showing you how to formulate your own ideas in a clear, analytical style. Fully updated throughout, further advice on using web-based sources and avoiding plagiarism will equip you with the tools you need to succeed on your course.

This wide-ranging text provides a thematic account of British history centering on the eventful period of the 19th century. To the traditional, chronological account of historic happenings, the authors add a full range of thematic chapters examining political structures, ideologies, wars and international relations, economic and social history, religion, culture and ethnicity. Britain, as opposed to England, is the focus of the book. The coverage is enhanced with supplementary background information on key personalities and pivotal events, and numerous illustrations.

-- Alfred V. Covello, Chief United States District Judge, Connecticut