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Episode 7 of Polygamy examines Joseph Smith's methods of proposing plural marriage to women, revealing troubling patterns of manipulation and coercion. We analyze specific cases involving young women like 14-year-old Helen Mar Kimball and Lucy Walker, exploring how Smith used religious authority, divine threats, and family connections to secure these marriages. We discuss his deceptive practices, including secret marriages, sham weddings to conceal relationships from his wife Emma, and strategic approaches that isolated vulnerable women. The episode presents a critical perspective on Smith's actions and motivations in implementing this controversial practice. 

Sources

• Video: Joseph Smith Marriage Proposals Part 1_1679 Mormon Stories
• Video: Joseph Smith Marriage Proposals Part 2_1682 Mormon Stories
• Video: The Happiness Letter_1688_Mormon Stories

AI Prompt
Discuss how Joseph Smith proposed plural marriage to his followers? Be a detective. Focus on who, what, where, when, why and how?  How did he propose it to women? How did he seek approval from the men (fathers, brothers, uncles . . . ?) How did he bring up plural marriage to men? What were the reactions of people? How did Joseph respond? Cover the Happiness Letter in detail. Focus on individual stories. What insights do these proposals give us into Joseph's character? Be logical. Be detailed. 

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1. Truth | 2. Beginnings | 3. First Vision | 4. Priesthood | 5. The Gold Plates | 6. The BoM | 7. The BoA | 8. Polygamy | 9. Changes | 10. Challenges | ...