The Happiness Letter (Joseph's Proposition to Nancy Rigdon) | Ep. 1688 | LDS Discussions Ep. 28

The Happiness Letter: A Controversial Chapter in Mormon History

When one thinks of the Mormon prophet Joseph Smith, many images come to mind: the visionary who translated the Book of Mormon, the charismatic leader of a growing religious movement, or even the bold pioneer who led his followers through the early days of the Church. However, a lesser-known and more contentious chapter of his life is the story of the Happiness Letter, a document that reveals much about Smith's secretive polygamous practices and moral complexities. The letter, which served as a proposition to Nancy Rigdon, the daughter of Smith's close confidant, offers a glimpse into the justification and turmoil surrounding early Mormon polygamy, challenging both members and scholars to grapple with an uncomfortable past.

Background on the Happiness Letter and Its Context

In April 1842, Joseph Smith made a bold move by proposing marriage to Nancy Rigdon. Smith's polygamous overtures were frequently shrouded in secrecy and controversy, and his approach to Nancy was no different. The proposal was orchestrated by Nancy Marinda Hyde, a dedicated follower and recruiter for Smith's polygamous arrangements. Joseph Smith, ever the pragmatist, sought to explain his actions to Nancy through a carefully worded letter, known today as the Happiness Letter.

The letter's opening line declares, "Happiness is the object and design of our existence," a phrase that has unsurprisingly been quoted by Latter-day Saints leaders for its uplifting sentiment. However, the context of this letter and its implications took on a different hue when one considers that it was partly intended to persuade Nancy to accept Smith's proposal under the guise of divine approval.

Key Claims and Evidence from the Happiness Letter