Thu, 26 December 2019
On this episode, we continue reading through our recently published article in the Journal of Psychedelics Studies titled “The Entheogenic Origins of Mormonism: A Working Hypothesis”. In this segment of the paper, we discuss many candidate entheogens Joseph Smith may have employed in the early church as well as the symptomology commonly associated with these various candidates. Also discussed is Luman Walters, an occult mentor of Joseph Smith in the 1820s. We utilize the information established in the candidate psychedelics section to inform a discussion of the first-vision experience in the early 1820s. An entheogenic-lens offers an interesting view into certain passages in the Book of Mormon including multiple instances of death and rebirth symbology, easily interpreted as the common experience of ego-dissolution when using entheogens. Further, the therapeutic effects of mitigating PTSD and depression symptoms may have provided a unique allure to these plant medicines by Joseph, the entire Smith family, and the early Mormons. Find the paper here: Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 19 December 2019
On this episode, we begin reading through the academic paper recently published in a special edition of the Journal of Psychedelics Studies authored by Robert Beckstead, Bryce Blankenagel, Cody Noconi, and Michael Winkelman. This segment of the paper covers the background of the Smith family, magic and 19th-century American occultism, herbalism, medicine, Indigenous medicine, Free Masonry, and the entheogenic influence in all these fields. It also discusses psychedelics in the Word of Wisdom, the Book of Mormon, and early Mormon sacramental rituals. The increased need for secrecy was realized by Joseph Smith and the entheogenic practices became closed off to non-initiates. Please send any feedback to nakedmormonism@gmail.com. We’d love to hear anything you have to say about the paper. Find the paper here: Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 12 December 2019
On this episode, Joseph Smith’s presidential campaign is ramping up! Jo nominates James Arlington Bennet for his Vice-Presidential candidate, White-out Willard Richards drafts a letter to Bennet, notice is printed in the Nauvoo Neighbor, and a retraction is published the following week. A special conference is called to preach to 8,000 Mormons about politics, the campaign, and the Mormon expansionist agenda. Jo picks a few of his dissenters out of the crowd and grand-stands about them being enemies, preaching about how he will “use up” those who oppose the mission of the church. Construction on the Nauvoo Temple and tithing are emphasized. Bloody Brigham Young makes a speech about not filing legal complaints when wrongs are committed against you. An exploratory group is formed and armed to the teeth to venture into the wilds of Texas and Oregon for the next Mormon settlement and staging ground. A “Hint” is sent to Missouri and the Missourians in St. Louis start to get uneasy about a President Joseph Smith. Links: Everything we read came from the History of the Church. Pick up your set of Vogel’s “Source—and text—Critical Edition. Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 5 December 2019
On this episode, we discuss the continued growing tensions between the Mormon and non-Mormon settlements in Illinois in early 1844. The Nauvoo City Council renews its effort to get an ordinance passed through the state legislature from Dec. 1843 which claimed Nauvoo to be a sovereign territory as well as the Nauvoo Legion to be a federally-recognized militia. How did they work to lobby this through the State legislature? By harping on the same persecution narrative resulting from the 1838 Missouri-Mormon conflict. This dead horse keeps on giving. Eventually, Governor Thomas Ford steps in to try and cool things down. The unsatisfied Warsaw Signal prints his letter with their commentary and Jo prints a concession in the Nauvoo Neighbor. Thomas Ford’s History of Illinois (1854) reflects on this complicated time when Jo decided to run for POTUS. Links: Warsaw Signal archives: Thomas Ford’s letter (14 Feb 1844) A History of Illinois by Thomas Ford Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Fri, 29 November 2019
On this episode, we sit down with Don Bradley, author of a recently-released book covering what we know about the lost 116 pages of the Book of Mormon. Don has been researching this topic for the last 15 years and writing about it for the last 2; now his research is compiled into his book “The Lost 116 Pages”. What can we know about a manuscript which as been lost for nearly 2 centuries? What sources has Don used to inform his speculation of the contents of that manuscript? What missing puzzle pieces of the Book of Mormon could be filled by the manuscript? Find out the answer to hardly any of these questions by listening to our discussion, but find out the answer to all of these questions by purchasing his book! We spend very little time discussing the actual content of the book, instead focusing more heavily on Joseph Smith and the world view which allowed him to write the 116 pages and the Book of Mormon. Purchase here: Connect with Don Bradley here: Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 21 November 2019
On this episode, we spend a bit of time familiarizing ourselves with one of the most powerful people in Mormon history. Few people left behind so much material to work with as Eliza R. Snow and her poems, written throughout her life, reveal a level of character development seldom seen through any other set of documents. We get a sense for her perspectives on religion, social issues, polygamy, the plight of the Native American, and Christian Zionism. When taken as a whole, Eliza’s lexicon charts the progression of humanity through Mormon history better than nearly any other source. Go support Vulgarity For Charity by donating to Modest Needs and sending in your receipt! Eliza R. Snow’s Poetic Lexicon Laurel Thatcher Ulrich’s newest book A House Full of Females Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 14 November 2019
On this episode, times are tough in Nauvoo. From fights against the anti-Mormons in Carthage to financial strain pressuring everybody in the Kingdom on the Mississippi, Mormon leadership is looking for possible solutions to increasing debt crushing Jo and the whole community. They decided the Nauvoo Temple was the most financially viable solution to return initial investment causes, which pushed all other city projects back years. Joseph Smith decides to call on the Green Mountain Boys militia to help the Nauvoo Legion in a campaign to make Missouri answer for her crimes. Check out the Smith-entheogen paper in Journal of Psychedelic Studies here: Links: Letter to Green Mountain Boys Yelrom settlement Isaac Morley Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 7 November 2019
On this episode, a fight breaks out between the Carthaginians and the Mormons of Nauvoo. Olive Amanda Smith Fullmer filed an affidavit charging her partner, Milton Cook, with bastardy (abandonment) and the Mormon Sheriff, Horace Eldridge, is granted a warrant for Cook’s arrest. When Eldridge arrives in Carthage, he’s confronted by the citizens and unable to serve the warrant. He returns to Nauvoo and gathers a posse of Nauvoo Legionnaires, including Stephen Markham, to descend on Carthage and affect the arrest once and for all. The ensuing confrontation creates chaos and pandemonium and the local media outlets battle it out in print for determining what actually happened. Check out the updated Smith-entheogen theory paper here! Links: Olive Amanda Fullmer Smith Milton Cook Quincy Whig Warsaw Message Jan 1844 Stephen Markham Revelation, Resistance, and Mormon Polygamy by Merina Smith Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 31 October 2019
On this episode, we discuss William Marks, his importance to our timeline, and a special council called to determine how loyal he was to the prophet. Just like last week, some had entertained thoughts that there was a Brutus in the highest rings of Mormon leadership waiting to backstab the prophet when his back was turned. William Marks is called in and various church officials testify about secret oaths and plots in the dark alleys of Nauvoo. Some police officers camp outside Marks’s home waiting to cut him off when the time was right. Jo plays dumb and everybody goes home for want of candles. Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 24 October 2019
On this episode, we discuss the Nauvoo Police Force and the perpetuation of the Danite system of law. Joseph Smith was afraid there may be a Judas or Brutus in the ranks of Mormon leadership and pointed the finger at William Law. Law becomes the focus of an assassination attempt, which he became aware of through a Danite who didn’t keep his mouth shut. An inquisition is held to determine if William Law is the “dough-headed” traitor in the ranks while spiritual wifery and Daniteism are discussed openly behind the closed door. How will William Brutus Marks fair in his tribunal? Tune in next week to find out! Links: An Interview with William Law The Culture of Violence in Joseph Smith’s Mormonism by D. Michael Quinn Nauvoo Expositor Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Fri, 18 October 2019
On this episode, we dive into a strange occurrence in early 1844. By the last year of his ministry, Joseph Smith had designated half a dozen people to be his rightful successors in his absence or in the case of his death. But, in early 1844, it was finally time for Joseph Smith III (Jo 3.0) to receive his ordination as rightful heir to the Mormon mantle. We discuss when it happened, a bunch of other succession instructions (as well as when and why they were given), and finally discuss the text of the actual Jo 3.0 succession blessing which was “discovered” by Mark Hofmann in 1981. The letter was a forgery, but the RLDS still have the most solid ground for rightful succession. If you disagree, fight me in the comments about it! Links: Mormon Enigma by Linda King Newell and Valeen Tippetts Avery Lecture on Faith #2 The Mormon Succession Crisis of 1844 by D. Michael Quinn Joseph Smith III’s 1844 Blessing and the Mormons of Utah Benjamin Franklin Johnson, My Life’s Review Hofmann audio tape Sunstone presentation Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 10 October 2019
On this episode, we air a presentation given for the John Whitmer Historical Association conference on psychedelics in early Mormonism. If my inbox is any indicator, many of you have been waiting on the newest research related to the Smith-entheogen theory; the wait is over. This presentation focuses specifically on the likely presence of the nightshade family of plants in Mormonism within the 19th-century medicinal and occult context. If this presentation isn’t enough, consider listening to the Patreon-exclusive edition which is nearly 3 hours’ worth of extended research used to create the presentation, along with a few stories from the conference itself and some audience reactions. That’s my way of saying ‘thank you!’ to our financial supporters who made this research and attending the JWHA conference possible! Next week we’ll jump back into our historical timeline. Sign up here and join the ranks of the NaMo family! Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 3 October 2019
On this episode, we resume our conversation with Philippa Meek, a research fellow at Exeter University specializing in Mormon polygamy studies. What would it take to decriminalize or legalize polygamy? Is this the best option? Philippa makes the case that plural marriage will be the next social justice issue and it’s only a matter of time before it is legal and considered socially acceptable by presenting survey data and legal precedent in other sexual and family dynamic issues from the 20th and 21st centuries.
Come to the March for the Children!!! How to find Philippa Meek https://exeter.academia.edu/PhilippaJulietMeek Show links
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Thu, 26 September 2019
On this episode, we take a break from our historical timeline to bring you a special guest. Philippa Meek is a research fellow at Exeter University specializing in polygamous religious sects. Part one of our discussion walks us through the controversial and intense history of early Mormon polygamy in Nauvoo and Utah. Then we dive into the legal issues surrounding the Utah Mormons and how the federal government passed numerous acts to specifically target Mormon polygamy, as well as the Mormon response to this increased pressure. Tune in next week to hear about navigating the legal sphere of legalizing polygamy!
Come to the March for the Children!!! How to find Philippa Meek https://exeter.academia.edu/PhilippaJulietMeek Show links
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Thu, 19 September 2019
On this episode, we check in with Emma and her slipping grasp on power. She kicks out of the Nauvoo Mansion the Partridge sisters, the Lawrence sisters, and Jane Manning James to hopefully cut down on the rumors circulating the city. Orsimus F. Bostwick files a public complaint against Hyrum Sidekick-Abiff Smith and claims “half a bushel of meal” will get him any prostitute he wants in Nauvoo. An anonymous poem is published about Celestial Marriage. W. W. Phelps responds with “The Voice of Innocence from Nauvoo” and it’s read to the first meeting of the Relief Society of 1844. Emma chastises her counselors telling them to keep an eye on their daughters. Links: Come to the March for the Children!!! If the sales pitch at the end hit ya in the brain and feels, please consider supporting the show here The Voice of Innocence from Nauvoo Eliza Partridge Emily Partridge Buckeye’s Laments by Gary Bergera Buckeye’s Lamentation for Want of More Wives poem Joseph hiding polygamy Nauvoo Relief Society minutes Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 12 September 2019
On this episode, we tap into over a dozen news articles to get a finger on the pulse of 1844 America when it came to the Mormons. People across the nation loved to read headlines about the Mormons and papers with those headlines sold like hotcakes. Newspapers ramped up the headlines to sell more copies, which, in turn, made everybody even more frenzied about the deluded religious fanatics that were going to take over the country. A new scandal breaks and Jo deflects everybody’s attention by calling out John C. Calhoun on his complacency toward the plight of the Mormons. Links: Newspaper articles featured: Announcements! March for the Children Oct. 5, 2019 John Whitmer Historical Association Conference Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 5 September 2019
On this episode, we begin with discussing the arrest and extradition to Missouri of Mormon horse-thief Daniel Avery. He suffers for 2 weeks in a Missouri jail and is let off on a writ of habeas corpus to return to Nauvoo and swear out an affidavit detailing what happened. The Anti-Mormon political party becomes more aggressive in its opposition to Mormon political power and the Nauvoo City Council responds with enacting an ordinance which would allow them to arrest any officer of the law attempting to arrest a Mormon and throw them in prison for life. The Anti-Mormon party reacts in outrage and drafts their own resolution to run any Mormons out of Carthage and Warsaw, as well as send a copy of the new Nauvoo ordinance to the Governors of Missouri and Illinois. We wrap the episode with briefly discussing last week’s episode and some listener mail. Links: Daniel Avery Warsaw Signal Warsaw Signal Archives Nauvoo Neighbor 12/23/43 Announcements! March for the Children Oct. 5, 2019 John Whitmer Historical Association Conference Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 29 August 2019
Joseph Smith is granted 100,000 soldiers as part of his private militia, gets elected President of the United States, and his Council of Fifty manages war on 2 fronts with the Confederate South and Texas-Mexico border while General Smith wages a conquest covering over a million square miles. He returns to Washington D.C. in 1848 to take his office as Prophet, Priest, King, and Ruler (PPKR) of the nation of Zion. Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 22 August 2019
On this episode, we dive into part 2 of our discussion of the Council of Fifty. What was it used for? Why was it convened? What transpired in the closed-door meetings? What documents do we have and how did they come to us? This episode is divided into 3 parts to help break down what we know about the Council of Fifty. 1) Conception; how did it come to be, what are the roots of this Council being formed, what’s the doctrinal basis for it? 2) Conjugation; the complete and total intercourse between church and state to accomplish a singular theocratic goal. 3) Conglomeration; the result of dozens leading thousands within a complex theology to one single goal, complete and absolute Mormon tyranny. Links: Church article on Seer Stones Council of Fifty minutes Council of Fifty MormonThink Press release for CoF minutes The Council of Fifty and Its Members by D. Michael Quinn BYU Studies 1980 Joseph Smith journal 1842-44 Joseph H. Jackson 1844 expose Announcements: Sunstone History Podcast episode 12 John Whitmer History Conference Protect LDS Children March on October 5, 2019 Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 15 August 2019
On this episode, we begin our deep-dive series into the Council of Fifty. Joseph Smith’s theocracy required organizational structure; the Council of Fifty is how he planned on implementing it. William Clayton was called as scribe for the Council and we discuss his life and role in early Mormonism. Clayton’s journals have been a source of controversy and clandestine institutional secrecy for over a century and a half. We dive into why that is, the journals he kept, and the inner-workings of the controversy. This episode is a classic Naked Mormonism deep-dive and the length was required to do the issue proper justice. We have a quick guest appearance from Sandra Tanner to discuss the lawsuit filed by Andrew Ehat in the early 1980s. Links: Council of Fifty Minutes Council of Fifty Minutes press release William Clayton Andrew Ehat v. Tanners Andrew Ehat v. Tanners conclusion An Intimate Chronicle; the Journals of William Clayton by George D. Smith James Allen/George Smith exchange Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 8 August 2019
On this episode, we take a break from our historical timeline to bring you a very exciting interview with Jana Riess and Benjamin Knoll. Jana Riess is the author of the book “The Next Mormons” and Benjamin Knoll is the data scientist who helped create the survey an interpret the data which underlies the book. We discuss a chapter-by-chapter Q&A about the book and explore ways to interpret the data, as well as how it was interpreted for publication in the book itself. On a personal note, this book comes very highly recommended and if you’ve heard anything about the book I can almost guarantee it’s been a good review because The Next Mormons is one of the most important books of the 2010s. It’s my sincere hope that after listening to this interview you get a copy for yourself. Enjoy! Where to find The Next Mormons Jana Riess contact and bio page Benjamin Knoll contact and bio page Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Wed, 31 July 2019
On this episode, we read Jo’s POTUS campaign pamphlet. On Jan. 29, 1844, JS was nominated for President of the United States. What immediately followed was his calling for various church leaders to canvass high population areas to electioneer and commissioning William W. Phelps to write out his campaign platform. We read it top to bottom and discuss the historical importance and context for each paragraph. After that we’re joined by Mary and Shelly of Latter-day Lesbian Podcast to talk about their show and do a FUMPOTD. Check out their show in the links below. Also, if you’re in the SLC area or are going to Sunstone Symposium this weekend, come hang out at Club 90 this Friday 8/2/19! (link below) JS 1844 Presidential Campaign Pamphlet Latter-day Lesbian Podcast SUNSTONE SYMPOSIUM Club 90 hangout Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 25 July 2019
On this episode, we discuss how fluid Joseph Smith’s morality and theology really was. We begin with his evolving perspective on slavery from pro-slavery to abolitionist when it was politically advantageous. Then we discuss how Mormonism was strictly monogamous to closeted polygamous when possible. Then Jo goes from socialist when he was poor to capitalist when he was filthy rich. A few court cases reveal Jo’s abuse of power and fluid sense of morality. We discuss Finch & Rollosson grocer and the ultimate result of John Finch’s affiliation with the Mormons. Links: Five Times Mormons Changed Their Position on Slavery Mosiah 2 Alma 50 Alma 27 Alma 48 Messenger & Advocate on Abolitionism JS Presidential Campaign Pamphlet D&C 101 Monogamy Revelation What Does the Book of Mormon Say About Polygamy D&C 132 United Firm 4 Nephi Nauvoo City Council Minute Book 1841-1845 JS discourse against socialism Amos Davis Nov 1842 Nauvoo v. Davis John Finch William Rollosson State of Illinois v. Finch Finch habeas corpus petition Finch summary execution Memorial to the United States Mentioned in “C” segment SUNSTONE!!! Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 18 July 2019
On this episode, we start with discussing whether or not Emma Smith poisoned Joseph Smith. If she didn’t, who did? If it wasn’t poison, what could it have been? Is there enough evidence to conclude that Emma attempted to kill her first husband? After that we discuss the Christmas party of 1843 at the Nauvoo Mansion when a drunk, Missouri-lookin’ guy comes in and crashes the party. Joseph Smith gives a revelation that came true: “I prophesy, in the name of the Lord, that you—Orrin Porter Rockwell—so long as ye shall remain loyal and true to thy faith, need fear no enemy. Cut not thy hair and no bullet or blade can harm thee!” Links: Emma Smith Lore Reconsidered by Linda Newell JS November 1843 journal Jacob Bigelow 1822 Materia Medica Helen Mar Kimball Smith Whitney Reminiscences Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Fri, 12 July 2019
On this episode, we discuss the Law family. From Jo’s personal councilor in the Church presidency, aide-de-camp in the Nauvoo Legion, registrar of the University of Nauvoo, and general Mormon eliteness to one of the most powerful and outspoken critics of Joseph Smith and Mormonism; William Law has an interesting story in the Church and left behind a ton of documentation that is crucial and invaluable to historians today. We get to know him, his wife Jane, and his brother Wilson in this episode and then discuss what changed. Links: William Law Biography Wilson Law Biography JS Reflections and Blessings William Law grain and sawmill William Law-chaired Court Martial Deed from JS/ES to William Law Council of Fifty Minutes D&C 124 History of the Saints by John C. Bennett An Interview with William Law 3 letters from William Law Joseph H. Jackson 1844 expose Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 4 July 2019
On this episode, we discuss the controversial election of 1843. Jo had promised his vote, and by implication the Mormon voting bloc, to the Whig candidate and well-respected lawyer, Cyrus Walker. However, the Democrats held control of the state militia that represented a constant threat to the safety of Joseph Smith and the Mormons. Governor Thomas Ford pulled a dirty trick to get the Mormons to vote for the Democrat candidate, Joseph Hoge; a grand scheme was carried out to flip-flop the Mormon vote. When Hyrum Sidekick-Abiff Smith received a prophecy, the Lord had spoken, let all the world be silent. Back scratching and political favors negotiated behind closed doors rule the day.
The Prophet and the Presidency
Josiah Butterfield
Cyrus Walker
August 6, 1843 public speech
To Save the District for the Whigs
Warsaw Signal 2/14/44
Warsaw Signal 2/21/44
History of Hancock County by Thomas Gregg
History of Illinois by Thomas Ford
Quincy Whig 1843
Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 27 June 2019
On this episode, we jump back into Nauvoo Mormonism. We begin with discussing the realm of politics in the 1840s. Jo’s political chess didn’t begin in Nauvoo, but Nauvoo was where he ramped up his game and moved to the ranks of political chess master. Jo had an incredible ability to curry the favor of powerful politicians and influential business owners who regarded Nauvoo as a tourist town on the Mississippi. Then we discuss how polygamy and the practice of “spiritual wifery” required a system of organization and ascendency for Nauvoo sex workers. The results are worthy of note and degrading to the women who were regarded as property. Links: The Prophet and the Presidency: Mormonism and Politics in Joseph Smith’s 1844 Presidential Campaign by Timothy L. Wood History of Illinois by Governor Thomas Ford Women’s Work and Sex Work in Nineteenth-Century America by Anya Jabour Joseph H. Jackson 1844 expose Sexual Slander and Polygamy in Nauvoo by John S. Dinger History of the Saints by John C. Bennett Godless Engineer “Was Joseph Smith a Convicted Con Man? || Mormonism Debunked Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Fri, 21 June 2019
On this episode, we get into part 2 of our discussion with Mormon historian Chris Smith. Part 1 was the primer with a heavy focus on early Mormon emissaries. Part 2 dives into how these Mormon-Native relationships were explored and leveraged to hasten the Mormon theodemocracy with dictatorial prophecies of war and bloodshed. Chris reads a letter from James Arlington Bennett that minces no words about the impending Mormon military campaign. Then we bring things back around to Alpheus Cutler to discuss his Native emissary missions and settlement. We wrap the conversation with Native-Mormon relations in Utah under Brigham Young and discuss Walkara. Chris opines on what lessons we can take from this snapshot of history. Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 13 June 2019
On this episode, we sit down with Mormon historian Chris Smith to discuss part 1 of a 2-part series on Native and Mormon relations during Joseph Smith’s ministry. We begin with discussing the Book of Mormon being written explicitly to the Natives and describe Joseph’s mindset in allying with the Natives to overthrow the U.S. Government. Then we broach the utility of the Council of Fifty and jump into a few important emissaries Joseph called to forge trading and military relations with various Native tribes. Lewis Denna (Dana, Denny), and his work with church leadership, are of particular import as he was a Native convert to the church. We try to put the plight of the Natives in broader context throughout America. Then we wrap with the work of Jonathan Dunham (J. Dunham ‘Lamanite’) and his work with various Native groups. Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 6 June 2019
On this episode, we dive into the ubiquity of Nauvoo polygamy. Much has been made about Joseph Smith having multiple wives, but he wasn’t the only Nauvoo elite with more than one. Just how prevalent was the practice? How many participated? How many knew about the doctrine? How many plural marriages were formed prior to D&C 132 being committed to paper? What conclusions can we draw from the available data? Gary James Bergera’s article is a masterpiece in helping to understand the complexity of the tangled web of Nauvoo Polygamy. Identifying the Earliest Mormon Polygamists by Gary Bergera James Adams Ezra T. Benson Reynolds Cahoon Joseph Coolidge Howard Egan William Felshaw Deed to William Felshaw William Huntington biography by Andrew Jensen Joseph Kelting Isaac Morley Joseph Bates Noble John Edward Page Uncle John Smith Theodore Turley Lyman Wight Edwin Woolley Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 30 May 2019
Just that, I'm finally doing it for the first time in 4.5 years of podcasting. But, there are a few announcements that need to find a home in your earhole so please permit a short 5.75 mins of listening to give those announcements the home they deserve. I'm sorry everybody! We'll be back next week with a regular episode. Link to Mormon Happy Hour episode about NewNameNoah and McKenna Denson : https://www.patreon.com/posts/video-mckenna-27245352
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Fri, 24 May 2019
On this episode, Hingepin Sidney Rigdon is in the hot seat. August of 1843 brought about events that led to him being disfellowshipped. After a month of waiting on pins and needles, Rigdon was called in for a hearing before the High Council to determine if he would remain in fellowship, or be officially excommunicated. His powers of oratory shine through the historical record as he pleads his case with life-or-death implications. Joseph Smith gives a couple cryptic funeral sermons. Links: Encouraging Joseph Smith to Practice Plural Marriage by Brian Hales Brigham Young: A Bold Prophet by James Faust August 1843 current events Elias Higbee Manuscript History of Brigham Young Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 16 May 2019
On this episode, we pick up with a European convert who made his way to Nauvoo in 1841. Alexander Neibaur was a “learned” man who was given to linguistic studies, dentistry, and esoteric Hebrew mysticism. Joseph Smith found a friend and fellow occultist in Neibaur and Mormon doctrine and theology exploded upon Neibaur’s arrival. We tell Neibaur’s story, give a brief overview of Kabbalah, and speculate on how Nauvoo theology was influenced by Kabbalah and Neibaur specifically. Links: Joseph Smith and the Kabbalah Brief History of Neibaur Neibaur Journal Susa Young Gates biographical sketch of Alexander Neibaur Usage of ‘Elohim’ in early Mormonism “The Jews” by Alexander Neibaur circa July 1843 Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 9 May 2019
On this episode, as we enter the last half of 1843, an era of good-feelings falls upon Nauvoo. The streets shined as if paved by gold and the Mormons had beat the justice system again while polygamy was in full swing! We focus in on some of the pressures behind closed doors the public wasn’t privy to. We hear the story of Jane Manning James and her migration to Nauvoo, how she met the Smiths, came to live in the Nauvoo Mansion, and her relationships with Emma and other women living in the house. Then we hyperfocus on Emma and her constant inner battle with polygamy. Links: Mormon Enigma “Life Sketch” of Jane Manning James An Interview With William Law Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 2 May 2019
On this episode, Dr. Quinn picks up right where we left off in part 1. Mike tells us about his disagreements with the general direction of BYU Mormon History academia. New Mormon History is born as the Church Historian's Archives are opened and a new influx of independent researchers get their eyes on crucial previously-censored documents. Mark Hoffman shaped the realm of Mormon history while the feminizing of the academic field begins to gain serious traction. Quinn publishes articles and reviews in support of the scholarship coming from women's groups concerning women holding the priesthood and then writes his seminal Early Mormonism and the Magic World View. He tenders his resignation then goes into hiding from church authority to evade excommunication. Finally, Women and Authority is published which was plutonium to many scholars who were somehow involved, including Quinn. 5 excommunications and 1 disfellowshipping go down in infamy as the "September Six". Please support Quinn's scholarship by purchasing his books from these fine retailers: Early Mormonism and the Magic World View http://www.signaturebooks.com/product/early-mormonism-and-the-magic-world-view/ Same-Sex Dynamics Among Nineteenth-Century Americans https://www.press.uillinois.edu/books/catalog/74dbx6fq9780252069581.html Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power http://www.signaturebooks.com/product/the-mormon-hierarchy-origins-of-power/ Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power http://www.signaturebooks.com/product/the-mormon-hierarchy-extensions-of-power/ Mormon Hierarchy: Wealth and Corporate Power http://www.signaturebooks.com/product/mormon-hierarchy-wealth-and-corporate-power/ Show Links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com Twitter @NakedMormonism Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Naked-Mormonism/370003839816311 Patreon http://patreon.com/nakedmormonism Music by Jason Comeau http://aloststateofmind.com/ Show Artwork http://weirdmormonshit.com/ Legal Counsel http://patorrez.com/
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Thu, 2 May 2019
On this episode, we sit down with author/historian D. Michael Quinn to hear his biographical sketch. We begin with how he came to fall in love with information and history then hear how he came into contact with "anti-Mormon propaganda," only to find out it was true. Then he takes us on a journey through his education and career in Mormon history working in the office of Leonard J. Arrington and then becoming employed by BYU as a professor. This is part 1 of a 2-part interview with Dr. Quinn. Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com Twitter @NakedMormonism Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Naked-Mormonism/370003839816311 Patreon http://patreon.com/nakedmormonism Music by Jason Comeau http://aloststateofmind.com/ Show Artwork http://weirdmormonshit.com/ Legal Counsel http://patorrez.com/
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Thu, 25 April 2019
On this episode, we take a brief foray into the magic world view of early Mormon leaders. From astrology to divination to scrying to palmistry, many early leaders of the church were influenced by the magic that underpins Protestant Christian mysticism. Instead of talking about Joseph Smith and his seer stones, we take a look at other prominent early Mormons to attempt to construct their beliefs systems that primed them for belief in the early church. Also, a brief listener mail segment to round out the show! Links: Scathing Atheist 322 w/Book of Moses Mormon Stories Spalding theory interview Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 18 April 2019
On this episode, we air a presentation I gave to a local Post-Mormon meetup group in St. George, Utah. By common consent they wanted to hear ALL the material I prepared. The talk begins with a little about my story, then progresses to points that I find interesting in Mormon history after studying it for 5 short years. After that, I share the newest research I’ve unearthed concerning psychedelics in early Mormonism. Patrons of the show will want to listen to the Patreon feed version to get the full unedited talk! Please support the show here! St. George Post-Mormon meetup group Fb page Mormon Stories Fb group SUNSTONE SHORT CREEK!!! Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Fri, 12 April 2019
On this episode, we seek to humanize a controversial and fascinating figure of Nauvoo Mormonism. Helen Mar Kimball has been leveraged as an attack against Joseph Smith for decades. The person at the center of those attacks is a wonderful and dynamic woman who was torn with following the prophet and her parents, or living the life of a teenager with her friends. Let’s inject the human element into the historical enigma, Helen Mar Kimball. Links: Helen Mar Kimball Smith Whitney autobiographical sketches 1881 letter Life of Heber C. Kimball by Horace Whitney JSP Helen Mar Kimball In Sacred Loneliness by Todd Compton SUNSTONE!!! MORMON HAPPY HOUR!!! Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Fri, 5 April 2019
On this episode, we dive into the historical context of the polygamy revelation (D&C 132). We discuss the plight of Emma with Jo’s reckless libido. We cover the historical foundation for William and Jane Law possibly brokering a sex-swap deal with Emma and Joseph Smith, as well as their later denials of such scandalous accusations. The stories of Sarah and Maria Lawrence & Emily and Eliza Partridge are told through the lens of some of the foremost historians of the field, reconstructed from firsthand accounts. Links: Hales – Quinn “Evidence for the Sexual Side of Joseph Smith’s Polygamy” William Law Letters to Wilhelm Wymetal Joseph H. Jackson 1844 expose Smith/Law wife swap on FAIR Mormon Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Fri, 29 March 2019
On this episode, we dive into deep Mormon theology! While this podcast is all about Mormon history, sometimes we need to discuss doctrine, when it was given, and the historical context during which said doctrine was created. Doctrine & Covenants 132 is widely known as the ‘Polygamy Revelation’ along with plenty of other controversial theology. This is part 1 discussing the actual text as dictated in July 1843. Part 2 will discuss the historical context next week. Links: Section 132 Mormon Polygamy Timeline Polygamy and the Law of Sarah D&C 101 “monogamy revelation” Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 21 March 2019
On this episode, Governor Ford’s hands are tied. Sheriffs Reynolds and Wilson, who’d arrested Joseph Smith, appeal to the Governor to call out the state militia to rein in Jo. The Mormons sign petitions calling on the Governor to never issue a warrant for arrest on any Mormons ever again. The Mormons collect a packet of affidavits and statements to be sent to Governor Ford, attempting to obstruct the wheels of justice from grinding up the Prophet. After that, Jo has a curious little meeting with some Potawatomie Chiefs and then calls Orson Hyde on a mission to Russia. Links: HoC vol 5 Ch 25 Sheriff Reynolds letter to the press Family Stories from the Trail of Tears Andrew Jackson 1829 State of the Union Address Joseph H. Jackson 1844 expose pamphlet Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Fri, 15 March 2019
On this episode, Joseph Smith was safe in his kingdom on the Mississippi. A legal mess had been mixed by everything that happened during the week of June 23-30, 1843 and now it was time to sort it out. Documentation is entered into the Nauvoo Municipal Court record justifying Jo’s arrest in the first place. Then Jo makes a speech to the eager Mormons who were excited to see their prophet safe in their town again. The following day the court convenes to hear witness testimony proving that Joseph Smith wasn’t guilty of treason against the State of Missouri. July 1, 1843 court hearing Don’t miss the Zachrilege Cast episode #185! Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 7 March 2019
On this episode, we pick up where we left off last week. Joseph Smith was in the custody of Missouri Sheriff, Joseph Reynolds, but the sheriffs were in the custody of one of Jo’s boys. We read through multiple first-person early accounts of how their journey to Nauvoo went. Jo had everything in his control. Links: Joseph Smith Arrested New York Herald Second Arrest of Joseph Smith Joseph H. Jackson 1844 Expose Cyrus Walker bio page Wilson Law bio page Stephen Markham bio page Albert P. Rockwood bio page History of Illinois by Governor Thomas Ford Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 28 February 2019
On this episode, at the behest of Joseph Smith, Joseph H. Jackson embarks on a mercenary trip to Missouri in hopes of breaking Porter Rockwell out of jail and finishing off Ex-Governor Lilburn Boggs. His true intent? Collude with Jackson County Sheriff Reynolds to arrest Joseph Smith. He isn’t successful, but gathers some helpful intel to bring back to the prophet to gain his trust. Joseph Smith heads to Dixon, Illinois to preach but winds up arrested by Sheriffs Reynolds and Wilson; mobs form everywhere they go. The Danites are called out to canvass Illinois to break Jo out of custody and return him to the Kingdom on the Mississippi, and Jo has a pistol smuggled to him. Content warning for this episode, there’s some of strong language. Links: Second Arrest of Joseph Smith 1843 Joseph H. Jackson 1844 expose Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 21 February 2019
On this episode, Joseph Smith is a fraud. We discuss two occurrences in Nauvoo which prove that Jo didn’t have access to any knowledge that people of his day did. First is the Greek Psalter incident where a guy proved that Jo had no idea what language was on the parchment. After that is the entirety of the Kinderhook Plates incident, which proves beyond any shadow of a doubt that Jo unabashedly knew he was a fraud. These incidents, coupled with the Book of Abraham in early 1842, reveal Jo to be the liar he was. Links: Henry Caswell “Three Days At Nauvoo” Greek Psalter expose Greek Psalter MormonThink article Henry Caswell: Anti-Mormon Extraordinaire Hugh Nibley The Myth Makers (1961) May 30, 1843 New York Herald signed “A Gentile” Kinderhook Plates FAIRMormon article Kinderhook Plates MormonThink Article Improvement Era Aug 1961 1981 Kinderhook Plate LDS.org article Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 14 February 2019
On this episode, Orrin Pistol Packin’ Porter Rockwell lets down his guard and heads for Nauvoo. As he was about to board the steamer, a bounty hunter caught up with him. We follow Port and his troubles in Missouri criminal justice system of 1843. In Port’s absence, a new wolf in sheep’s clothing appears. Links: Boggs Shooting and Attempted Extradition by Morris A. Thurston Millennial Star 1860 Porter Rockwell “facts” Joseph H. Jackson Bio 1842 Slander case Startling Disclosures August 1844 by Joseph H. Jackson Secular Society of MIT w/ Sohan Dsouza Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 7 February 2019
On this episode, I bother all of you with a Facebook fight. Yes, really. Don’t worry, it’s just to springboard into the controversial issue of abortion in Nauvoo Mormonism. We read through a court document from March 1843 of a woman who suffered abuse at the hands of a Thomsonian herbal physician after he gave her ergot and injected cayenne pepper into her veins. Then we opine on the plight of women in 19th-century America. The outro includes a brief conversation with Kimberly Anderson, the featured guest of our next NaMo Home Evening! Links: Dana v. Brink March 1843 1831 Thomsonian Family Vegetable Medicine William Bicking Brink Charles Root Dana ErGoT Albert Hoffman LSD-25 Smith-entheogen Theory Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 31 January 2019
On this episode, Joseph Smith and William Miller tangle through public media. Miller’s prophecy of the beginning of the Second Coming of Jesus is hotly disputed by the one true prophet. Jo goes out preaching to his congregants, sees a comet in the sky, and gives his own prophecy of when Jesus will return. Doctrine & Covenants 130 is revealed among all this hubbub concerning end-of-world prophecies. Also our final installment of treasure digs for those who donated to help Brother Jake. Links: William Miller endtimes flyer Latter-day Reactions to the Millerite Movement, 1843-1844 Joseph Smith, William Miller, and Prophetic Speculation Apocalyptic Adversaries: Mormonism Meets Millerism D&C 130 Textual Development of D&C 130:22 Joseph Smith 1890 Second Coming Prophecy Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Wed, 30 January 2019
On this episode, Jo was safe for a little while. It was time for the 1843 elections which returned predictable results. Jo elevates the Nauvoo House to the importance of the Nauvoo Temple, but then derides people for aggrandizing themselves. A market center is planned and Jo is given final decision-making power as Mayor. Then Jo goes to the Temple construction site and makes a speech that reveals some interesting details of his character. After that we get a great update on Brother Jake, and then take a turn into somber territory to say goodbye to a dear friend, Deborah “Heretic Woman” Mc Taggart. Last 15 mins contain explicit language. Links: Lucien Woodworth Have I Done Any Good? Will Lamartine Thompson Deborah “Heretic Woman” Mc Taggart Full Quranic Holy Crap Vlogcast Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Thu, 17 January 2019
On this episode, Andrew Torrez of Opening Arguments joins us to discuss the legal sphere of Joseph Smith’s troubles in 1843. He helps fact check my take on the January 1843 trial which heard in Smith’s favor on the writ of habeas corpus, but Jo was far from out of the woods. Andrew helps us understand what the next step would be for the State of Illinois as well as Jo’s legal counsel in keeping him out of state custody. After that, we read a letter Jo sent to his legal counsel with regards to new intelligence he’d gained from Orson Pratt. Then we wrap up with discussing a dream Jo had recorded in his history. Links: Go help BROTHER JAKE!!! January 1843 court transcription Opening Arguments Top 5 Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Fri, 11 January 2019
On this episode, we discuss the historicity of an altercation between Eliza Snow and Emma Hale Smith. Legend has it that Emma saw Eliza who was “heavy with child” kiss Jo and pushed Eliza down the stairs in a fit of jealous rage. It’s common oral tradition passed down for generations, but did it really happen? We dive into where the story came from and what the documentary history can tell us of the supposed incident. History isn’t always so cut and dry. Links: Go help BROTHER JAKE!!! Check out our sponsor this week promo code "Naked" for free upgrade to PRO! https://49dollarsites.com/ Figures of the Past Nauvoo Mansion and Homestead FairMormon did Emma push Eliza down the stairs Emma and Eliza and the Stairs by Beecher, Avery, and Newell Joseph Smith, the Prophet, His Friends, and his Family Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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Fri, 4 January 2019
On this episode, Jo’s arrested once again, but the stakes have never been higher. He and his posse make their way to Springfield, IL to determine whether or not a newly issued writ of Habeas Corpus should be honored at the federal level, or if Jo as accessory to murder in Missouri was a state issue to be handled at the Missouri level. Yes, we spend a lot of time mired in court documents, but it’s well worth the read/listen. After that, we do our treasure dig fundraiser for Brother Jake. There’s still time left to donate so don’t miss your chance to be written into a treasure dig! Just forward the receipt of your donation to nakedmormonism@gmail.com. Brother Jake Gofundme and YouTube January 1843 court transcription Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com
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