John A. Widtsoe
John A. Widtsoe: Scientist and Theologian, 1872–1952
Thomas G. Alexander
Born in Norway, John A. Widtsoe (1872–1952), was renowned for his expertise in irrigation and dry farming. His pioneering work pushed the boundaries of and contributed significantly to advancements in agricultural practices. Moreover, his forays into the field of biochemistry exemplified his relentless pursuit of scientific understanding.
Widtsoe’s journey came with challenges especially after he was called as an apostle in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As president of both Utah State Agricultural College (1907–16) and the University of Utah (1916–21), he faced controversies and obstacles head-on. Additionally, he played a significant role in overseeing the expansion of the LDS gospel in both Europe and the United States. He was highly esteemed within his church due to his ability to provide thorough and insightful explanations of various aspects of church doctrine and reconcile them with scientific truths. Throughout the early-to-mid-twentieth century, he symbolized to many members the successful integration of religious faith with secular knowledge, inspiring countless individuals to embrace both realms in harmony.
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Thomas G. Alexander is Lemuel Hardison Redd Jr. Professor Emeritus of Western American History at Brigham Young University and author or editor of numerous books and articles. He has served as president of the Pacific Coast Branch of the American Historical Association, Phi Alpha Theta (the National History Honor Society), the Mormon History Association, and the National Society of the Sons of Utah Pioneers and chaired the Board of Utah State History and the Utah Humanities Council. His honors include the Evans Biography Award, Fellow of the Utah State Historical Society, the Western History Association Honorary Life Membership, and BYU’s Karl G. Maeser Distinguished Faculty Lectureship.
Biography
ISBN: 978-1-56085-469-2
