Brigham Young, the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died on August 29, 1877, after a prolonged illness. The official cause of death was listed as intemperance, but recent research has shed light on a more complex and mysterious set of circumstances surrounding his death. As a prominent figure in the history of the LDS Church, Young's life and death have been extensively studied, yet the exact nature of his final illness remains shrouded in mystery.
Young's health had been declining for several years prior to his death, with various accounts citing erysipelas, a type of skin infection, as a contributing factor. However, a closer examination of primary sources reveals a more nuanced picture, with some historians suggesting that Young's death may have been related to a botched liver treatment or even colon cancer. The truth behind Young's mysterious cause of death is a topic of ongoing debate among historians and medical experts.
The Life and Legacy of Brigham Young
Brigham Young was born on June 1, 1801, in Bethel, Vermont, and played a pivotal role in the early development of the LDS Church. As a close associate of Joseph Smith, Young became a key leader in the church, overseeing the mass migration of Mormon settlers to Utah in the mid-19th century. Under his guidance, the church flourished, and Young's leadership helped shape the community and culture of the Mormon pioneers.
Early Symptoms and Medical Treatment
In the months leading up to his death, Young experienced a range of symptoms, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue. His condition worsened over time, and he became increasingly reliant on medical treatment. Young's personal physician, Dr. Anson Perry, administered various treatments, including calomel, a mercury-based medication commonly used at the time.
| Symptom | Duration |
|---|---|
| Diarrhea | Several weeks |
| Abdominal pain | Several months |
| Fatigue | Prolonged |
Theories Surrounding Young's Cause of Death
Despite the official cause of death being listed as intemperance, many historians believe that Young's death was more complex and multifaceted. Some theories suggest that he may have suffered from colon cancer, which was not easily diagnosable at the time. Others propose that a botched liver treatment may have contributed to his demise.
Colon Cancer Theory
The colon cancer theory is supported by Young's prolonged symptoms of abdominal pain and diarrhea, which are common indicators of the disease. Additionally, Young's family history and lifestyle factors may have increased his risk of developing colon cancer.
Botched Liver Treatment Theory
The botched liver treatment theory suggests that Young's physician, Dr. Perry, may have administered a treatment that ultimately harmed Young's liver. This theory is supported by accounts of Young's declining health in the months leading up to his death.
Key Points
- Brigham Young's official cause of death was listed as intemperance, but recent research suggests a more complex set of circumstances.
- Young's health had been declining for several years prior to his death, with various accounts citing erysipelas as a contributing factor.
- Theories surrounding Young's cause of death include colon cancer and a botched liver treatment.
- Young's symptoms in the months leading up to his death included diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue.
- The exact nature of Young's final illness remains shrouded in mystery, with ongoing debate among historians and medical experts.
Conclusion
The mysterious circumstances surrounding Brigham Young's death continue to fascinate historians and medical experts. While the official cause of death was listed as intemperance, recent research suggests a more complex set of factors may have contributed to his demise. As we reflect on Young's life and legacy, it is clear that his death remains an intriguing and multifaceted topic that warrants further exploration.
What was Brigham Young’s official cause of death?
+Brigham Young’s official cause of death was listed as intemperance.
What are some theories surrounding Young’s cause of death?
+Theories surrounding Young’s cause of death include colon cancer and a botched liver treatment.
What were some of Young’s symptoms in the months leading up to his death?
+Young’s symptoms included diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue.
