| Description |
The purpose of this thesis is to provide a comparative case study of two distinct units consisting of American soldiers who fought in religiously designated units, but on opposite sides during the Mexican-American War: the Mormon Battalion and the San Patricio Battalion. Both units are unique to American history. Yet despite their uniqueness, there are a surprising number of similarities between them. From their history of persecution, predating the war, to the common suffering and experiences all the soldiers endured, their similar circumstances continued (along with noted differences) until each U.S. soldier made the fateful decision of either remaining loyal or defecting to the enemy. This, however, was not the end to their similarities. Both units had government leaders assigned to command them; following the war, they received poor receptions from the people they defended; and the soldiers of both units are now revered as ethnic heroes. This study is taken from an American perspective of the war and focuses on Mormon Battalion soldiers' trend toward national allegiance to the United States of America from 1846 to 1847. Although this conflict occurred over 160 years ago, a comparative case study can still teach Americans some important lessons. Governments must demonstrate tolerance and respect for peoples' ethnicity and religious faiths to ensure conflicts do not appear as cultural or "holy" wars. Religious influences, soldier solidarity, and individual upbringings are important, but good, fair leadership, provided by competent officers, is the best motivator that can inspire national allegiance. |
