The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints officially renounces polygamy.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), commonly known as the Mormon Church, has a complex historical relationship with polygamy. In the mid-19th century, church founder Joseph Smith introduced the practice, calling it “plural marriage.” He and other early leaders taught that it was a divine commandment meant to strengthen families and expand the faithful community. For a time, polygamy was openly practiced among many of the church’s leaders and members, especially in Utah, where the church had established its headquarters after migrating westward to escape persecution.

The practice of polygamy quickly became one of the most controversial aspects of the LDS faith. It brought significant conflict with the broader American public and the U.S. government, which viewed it as morally unacceptable and illegal. Federal legislation, such as the Morrill Anti-Bigamy Act (1862) and the Edmunds Act (1882), directly targeted the church, leading to legal battles, the confiscation of church property, and imprisonment of members who continued the practice. This external pressure, coupled with growing tension within society, placed the LDS Church at risk of survival if it did not adapt.

In 1890, under the leadership of Church President Wilford Woodruff, the LDS Church officially renounced the practice of polygamy through what became known as the “Manifesto.” This marked a major turning point, as the church sought greater integration into mainstream American life. Since then, the LDS Church has consistently distanced itself from polygamy, excommunicating members who attempt to practice it. Nevertheless, breakaway fundamentalist groups—separate from the official LDS Church—continue to practice plural marriage, often leading to confusion in public perception. Today, the LDS Church emphasizes that it is a monogamous faith, underscoring that polygamy is part of its past, not its present.