Mormonism, Explained and Exposed

Originally published in 1853, Mormonism, Explained and Exposed by Dawson Burns is one of the earliest comprehensive critiques of the growing Latter-day Saint movement. Written just nine years after the death of Joseph Smith and only months after the public announcement of plural marriage, Burns provides a fascinating window into how Victorian-era observers understood Mormonism during its formative years.

Drawing from contemporary newspapers, government reports, eyewitness accounts, and early Mormon publications, Burns examines Joseph Smith's early treasure-seeking activities, the origins of the Book of Mormon, Mormon scripture and theology, church organization, the rise of Nauvoo, and the controversial introduction of plural marriage. While the work reflects the theological perspective and language of a nineteenth-century Baptist minister, it also preserves valuable historical arguments, sources, and contemporary reactions that continue to interest historians and students of Mormon history.

This modern edition has been carefully reformatted for readability while preserving the original text. Minor grammatical and formatting changes have been made, and additional editorial footnotes provide historical context where appropriate.

Whether you are researching early Mormonism, studying nineteenth-century religious controversies, or exploring primary historical perspectives on the Latter-day Saint movement, this classic volume offers an important contemporary voice from the era in which Mormonism first emerged.