All the races of mankind had a common origin, according to the theories of many religious and scientific experts, who further explain that it was during the subsequent dispersions that somatic, linguistic, and cultural differences developed. Of the resultant populations, none have given rise to greater curiosity than the American Indian.

When Columbus came to America, the aborigines were roaming the length and breadth of the Western Hemisphere. The highest cultures were those of the Incas, the Aztecs, and the Pueblos. The brilliant Mayan civilization of Yucatan had waned, leaving only magnificent ruins to attest its pristine glory.

When Anglo-Saxon met Red-man in the Great Basin, the two civilizations had been centuries apart. The dissimilarities, strikingly manifest as they were in standards of living and culture, were still more noticeable in face and feature. The aboriginal copperhued complexion, high cheek bones, and straight black hair stood out in sharp contrast to the predominately light hair and blue eyes of the recent arrivals. Fundamental is the fact that the latter were elements in a rising culture while the decadent stock were sadly reminiscent of the day when Mayan, Aztec, and Pueblo civilizations were ablaze with light and achievement.

Interestingly enough the Mormons had a theory and explanation peculiarly their own concerning the aborigines, their origin and history. Beginning with the story of migrations from the old world to the new, the Book of Mormon, the word of God to the believing, tells of wars and rumors of wars among Jaredites, Nephites, and Lamanites, and the gradual extinction of all except the latter who, because of transgression of God's laws, had been cursed with a dark skin. The disobedient race would, it was promised after due repentance, again "become a light and delightsome people." Mormonism so affirmed the close kindredship of the Anglo-Saxon settlers and the Lamanites whose honored ancestors were none other than the Christ and Father Adam.