This blog post explores the reactions of Mormon historians Barbara Jones Brown and Darren Perry to the Netflix series American Primeval, which dramatizes the Mountain Meadows Massacre and the broader context of Mormon history in the American West. The discussion highlights the inaccuracies in the portrayal of historical events and characters, while emphasizing the importance of understanding the true history behind these narratives.
In this edition of the Mormon Stories Podcast, host John Dehlin discusses the Netflix series American Primeval, which has gained significant attention for its portrayal of the American West during the 1857 timeframe, particularly focusing on the Mountain Meadows Massacre. Joined by historians Barbara Jones Brown and Darren Perry, the conversation delves into the historical accuracy of the series and the implications of its dramatization of Mormon history.
American Primeval is a dramatized series that claims to depict the events surrounding the Mountain Meadows Massacre, involving Mormons, Brigham Young, and Native Americans. The series has sparked discussions about the accuracy of its historical representations, prompting many viewers to question how much of the show reflects actual history versus dramatization.
Barbara Jones Brown is a historian and co-author of the book Vengeance is Mine: The Mountain Meadows Massacre and Its Aftermath. She has previously appeared on the podcast to discuss her work and the historical context of the Mountain Meadows Massacre.
Darren Perry is a member of the Shoshone Nation and an educator dedicated to sharing the history of his people. He emphasizes the importance of telling Native American stories from their own perspectives, rather than relying on external narratives.
The Mountain Meadows Massacre occurred in 1857 when a group of Mormon settlers attacked a wagon train of Arkansas immigrants, resulting in the deaths of over 120 individuals. The massacre was a culmination of tensions during the Utah War, where Mormons feared the encroachment of U.S. troops into their territory.
Brigham Young, the leader of the Mormon Church at the time, is often scrutinized regarding his involvement in the massacre. While he did not directly order the massacre, his rhetoric and the environment he fostered contributed to the violent atmosphere that led to the tragedy. The series portrays him as a frontier mob boss, which historians argue is an oversimplification of his character and actions.
Both Barbara and Darren express frustration with the series' inaccuracies. They highlight that the creators did not intend for the show to be historically accurate, which leads to misconceptions about the events and characters involved. For instance, the portrayal of Native Americans as violent aggressors is a harmful stereotype that does not reflect the complexities of the historical context.
Darren emphasizes the need for Native American voices in historical narratives, stating that the series, despite its inaccuracies, has sparked interest in the true history of the Shoshone people and the Mountain Meadows Massacre. He believes that discussions like these are crucial for reconciliation and understanding.
Barbara notes that while American Primeval is fictionalized, it raises awareness about significant historical events. She argues that the real stories of the Mountain Meadows Massacre and the Bear River Massacre are far more compelling and nuanced than what is depicted in the series. The true history involves complex human experiences and relationships that deserve to be told accurately.
The discussion surrounding American Primeval and the Mountain Meadows Massacre highlights the importance of understanding history from multiple perspectives. While the series may entertain, it is essential for viewers to seek out accurate historical accounts to grasp the full scope of these events. Both Barbara and Darren advocate for continued dialogue and education about the true history of the American West, emphasizing the need for reconciliation and understanding among all communities involved.
For those interested in learning more about the Mountain Meadows Massacre and the history of the Shoshone people, Barbara and Darren recommend:
These works provide a comprehensive look at the events and their implications, offering a more accurate portrayal of the historical context than what is presented in American Primeval.
