READ: What Groups Came West?
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Mormons
The Mormon Battalion
The Mormon Battalion
James K. Polk
Because they had left behind their lands, buildings, and many possessions, the Mormons asked the federal government for financial help. The U.S. had declared war on Mexico in May 1846, so President James K. Polk agreed to enlist a battalion of Mormon men, who would receive pay for their service.
The Mormon Battalion at the Gila River in Arizona, a painting by George Ottinger (1833-1917).
Around 500 volunteers enlisted and began a grueling march to San Diego (33 women and 51 children started out with them). During 1846-47, these men blazed a wagon route across the Southwest, but they never fought in the war.
Their pay and their later explorations helped the Mormons become established in Utah.