Saints Who Built America

The history of the United States is deeply intertwined with the history of the Latter-day Saints, whose influence has shaped the foundations of modern American life. Despite their pivotal role in key moments of US history, the contributions of the Saints are often forgotten. This legacy, though largely unknown, highlights the Saints unparalleled impact on building the American nation over the past 200 years. This cultural study brings to life many of the most significant moments in U.S. history, highlighting how the Latter-day Saints have influenced defining US events. LDS members will feel spiritually invigorated by the legacy they have inherited, while less active members may find renewed motivation for their faith by gaining a new perspective on what it has meant to be a member. Non-members will be most surprised by the innovations made by the Saints in medicine, music, literature, culture, science, and in shaping American foundations. They will gain a never before known appreciation for their LDS neighbors as they learn about all the significant impacts the Saints have had on the American way of life. Among the many topics covered, readers will learn how John F. Kennedy thanked the Saints for making it possible for him to run for office as the first Catholic President. They will also discover that Russia opened negotiations with the US for the sale of Alaska because of events happening during the Utah war. Further, the reader will be amazed at how a Latter-day Saint influenced Blues, Country and Rock n' Roll music, later inspiring the hit family performers, "e;The Jackson 5."e; Many will find it the most curious connection that the largest hotel chain in the world started out as an LDS member's Root Beer Stand, and also convinced airlines to start serving meals during flights. Cultural phenomena of all sorts have been affected or inspired because of Latter-day Saints. From Television to the Space Shuttle program, and from bathing suits in the 1960's, to food labels, and movies like "e;Kung Fu Panda."e; Most don't know about the lost Latter-day Saint aboard the Titanic, or how religious persecution became the basis for race discrimination at the end of the 19th century. Beyond all this, there are hints of an underlying truth, that some marvelous work and wonder has taken root in our nation. It appears to follow the Saints and has given rise to the greatest developments ever produced by man...