The Saints Who Built America: How Sacred Foundations Shaped 200 Years of US History

The history of the United States is deeply intertwined with the history of the Latter-day Saints. However, their contributions are often forgotten or ignored. Their legacy, though largely unknown, highlights the Saints unparalleled impact on building the American nation over the past 200 years. The Saints Who Built America brings to life the most significant moments in U.S. history, highlighting how the Latter-day Saints have influenced each defining event. Much more than a retelling of LDS history, the study integrates the Saint's contributions with the broader narrative of American identity, offering enriching and unique stories to the foundations of US culture, largely unknown to the nation. LDS members will feel spiritually invigorated by the legacy they have inherited. Non-members, too, will be most surprised by the innovations made by the Saints in medicine, music, literature, culture, science, and in shaping American foundations. Among the many topics in this study, readers will be astonished to learn that John F. Kennedy's presidential run was made possible, in part, by Latter-day Saints opening doors for religious minorities in government. They will also discover that Russia opened negotiations with the US for the sale of Alaska because of events during the Utah War (1857). Further, the reader will be amazed at how a Latter-day Saint influenced Blues, Country, and Rock n' Roll music, later inspiring hit family performers, including "The Jackson 5." Many will find it the most curious connection that the largest hotel chain in the world started out as an LDS Root Beer Stand, and later convinced airlines to serve meals during flights. Cultural phenomena like these, and of all sorts, have been inspired because of Latter-day Saints. From Television to the Space Shuttle program, and from bathing suits in the 1960's, to Expiration Dates, food labels, and even movies like "Kung Fu Panda." Learn about the lost Latter-day Saint aboard the Titanic, or how religious persecution in Congress became the basis for race discrimination in the 20th century. Along the way, become aware of the subtle "Marvelous Work and Wonder" engaging the nation over the past three centuries. With this, readers will likely draw new conclusions about the profound impact of Latter-day Saints on their day-to-day lives. This compelling history offers a fresh perspective on the Saint's cultural contributions to America and their expanding efforts in nations across the world.