Under the Banner of Heaven Summary
Under the Banner of Heaven is a non-fiction book written by Jon Krakauer. It is a deep dive into the history and culture of the Mormon Church, and the events that led to the creation of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (FLDS). The book focuses on the events surrounding the 1984 murder of Brenda Lafferty and her infant daughter, Erica, by two of her brothers-in-law, Ron and Dan Lafferty. The brothers were members of the FLDS, a sect of the Mormon Church that follows a fundamentalist interpretation of the religion.
The book begins with a brief overview of the history of the Mormon Church, from its founding in 1830 by Joseph Smith to its current status as one of the largest religions in the United States. Krakauer then delves into the history of the FLDS, which was founded in the early 20th century by a group of Mormon fundamentalists who rejected the Church’s decision to abandon polygamy. He examines the beliefs and practices of the FLDS, as well as the events that led to the 1984 murders.
Krakauer then explores the beliefs and practices of the FLDS, including its belief in the divine origin of the Book of Mormon and its strict adherence to the teachings of Joseph Smith. He examines the role of the FLDS in Utah and its influence on the state’s politics and culture. He also looks at the Church’s involvement in the 1984 murders and its subsequent cover-up.
Krakauer then examines the beliefs and practices of the FLDS, including its belief in the divine origin of the Book of Mormon and its strict adherence to the teachings of Joseph Smith. He examines the role of the FLDS in Utah and its influence on the state’s politics and culture. He also looks at the Church’s involvement in the 1984 murders and its subsequent cover-up.
The book concludes with an examination of the current state of the FLDS and its impact on the Mormon Church. Krakauer argues that the Church’s decision to abandon polygamy has had a profound effect on the FLDS, and that the Church’s refusal to recognize the FLDS has had a negative impact on the Church’s reputation. He also examines the Church’s role in the 1984 murders and its subsequent cover-up.
Conclusion
Under the Banner of Heaven is an important book for anyone interested in the history and culture of the Mormon Church. Krakauer’s thorough research and engaging writing style make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the Church and the events that led to the 1984 murders. The book offers an in-depth look at the beliefs and practices of the FLDS, as well as the Church’s involvement in the 1984 murders and its subsequent cover-up. It is an essential read for anyone interested in the history and culture of the Mormon Church.
