Wakara’s America: The Life and Legacy of a Native Founder of the American West – 990

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Wakara’s America: A Historical Perspective

Max discussed his new book, “Wakara’s America,” which explores the life and significance of Wakara, a prominent Ute leader in the 1840s. He explained that Wakara was known by different names in various regions, reflecting his extensive travels and interactions with diverse communities. Max, a historian of American religion at the University of Nebraska, shared his fascination with Latter-day Saint history and culture, which led him to research Wakara’s role in the American West and his interactions with early Mormons. He highlighted the need to tell Wakara’s story from his perspective, offering a more nuanced understanding of their complex relationship.

Wakara: The Forgotten West’s Thief

Max discussed Wakara, a Native American figure from the 1840s who was known as the greatest horse thief of the American West. He enslaved thousands of Paiutes and used his knowledge of the West to create maps that were later used by John C. Fremont and the Latter-day Saints. Max highlighted the importance of Wakara’s contributions to the American West, despite his being largely unknown due to his Native American heritage. Richie expressed surprise at learning about Wakara’s actions and the historical context, emphasizing the need to acknowledge and understand such figures’ roles in shaping history.

Understanding Historical Narratives Complexity

Max and Richie discussed the complexity of historical narratives, emphasizing the importance of a more nuanced understanding of historical figures and events. Max highlighted the need to recognize the implications of one’s own family history and suggested that acknowledging past actions can lead to better future decisions. They agreed to continue their discussion about the interactions between the Latter-day Saints and Native Americans in the Great Basin and Salt Lake Valley in the next segment. Richie also reminded listeners to contact the Cultural Hall with feedback or suggestions for future guests and discussions.

Brigham Young’s Utah Journey Myths

Max and Richie discussed the complexities of human beings and the challenges of categorizing individuals as purely good or bad. They explored the origins of the Latter-day Saints’ journey to Utah, focusing on Brigham Young’s Vanguard Company and the mythology surrounding their entry into the Salt Lake Valley. Max explained that while the story of Brigham Young declaring the area to be the “right place” is part of the origin myth, there is no concrete evidence to support this claim. They also discussed Brigham Young’s meeting with Jim Bridger, where Bridger warned about the Utes’ presence in the area, leading to a change in the Mormons’ planned route.

Wakara and Brigham Young’s Complex Relationship

Max discussed the complex relationship between Wakara, a Native American leader, and Brigham Young, the leader of the Mormons. Wakara helped Brigham settle in the Salt Lake Valley and was invited to the first Pioneer Day celebration in 1849. However, Wakara also used the Mormons to displace his rivals, leading to the extermination of the Timpanogos people in 1850. Max explained that Wakara’s slavery practices were different from the chattel slavery in the American South, as they were more about re-establishing bonds of peoplehood and connection to the land. Despite this, Wakara was baptized a Latter-day Saint in 1850 and led his followers into baptism.

Wakara’s Mormon Conversion and Alliances

Max discussed Wakara, a Native American leader who was baptized and later ordained as a Mormon priest, which the Mormons viewed as a conversion. Richie questioned whether Wakara’s involvement with the Mormons was a strategic move for power or a genuine conversion. Max explained that Wakara’s adoption of Mormonism was more about forming kinship networks and alliances rather than a complete conversion, and he placed his daughters in Mormon households to strengthen these bonds. Max also highlighted that Wakara’s descendants, including some who may not be aware of their Native American heritage, have been identified through DNA and genealogical research.

Brigham Young’s