Polygamy has long been a subject of fascination and controversy, especially in the United States where it has deep historical and cultural roots. Although many assume that polygamist communities disappeared long ago, the reality is that some still exist today, often living quietly and separately from mainstream society. These communities have evolved over time, adapting to legal restrictions, social changes, and modern values. Understanding whether polygamist communities still exist requires exploring their history, current status, and how they function in today’s world.
The Historical Background of Polygamy
Polygamy, defined as the practice of having more than one spouse at the same time, has been practiced in various cultures and religions throughout history. In the context of the United States, polygamy is most closely associated with early Mormonism. During the 19th century, leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) encouraged plural marriage as a divine commandment. However, intense public backlash and government pressure led the LDS Church to officially renounce polygamy in 1890.
Even after the LDS Church abandoned the practice, some followers refused to give it up. These groups broke away and continued practicing plural marriage, forming what are now known as fundamentalist Mormon sects. These smaller religious groups believed they were preserving the original teachings of the faith and that polygamy was essential to spiritual exaltation.
Modern Polygamist Communities in the United States
While polygamy is illegal in all fifty U.S. states, several communities still quietly practice it, primarily in the western states of Utah, Arizona, and parts of Texas. The most well-known groups include the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), the Apostolic United Brethren (AUB), and various independent fundamentalist families.
The Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS)
The FLDS Church is perhaps the most famous modern polygamist group. Founded in the early 20th century, the FLDS gained national attention under the leadership of Warren Jeffs, who was later convicted of serious crimes. Despite this, the community continues to exist, though on a smaller scale. Many FLDS members still live in isolated towns such as Hildale, Utah, and Colorado City, Arizona-twin communities once known collectively as Short Creek.
Life in FLDS communities is centered on strict religious obedience, traditional gender roles, and plural marriage. The group maintains strong social bonds and often avoids contact with outsiders to preserve its way of life.
The Apostolic United Brethren (AUB)
The AUB is another significant polygamist group, though it operates more openly than the FLDS. Based in Bluffdale, Utah, and with members spread across several states, the AUB claims thousands of followers. Members typically live among mainstream society, run businesses, and send their children to public schools, all while maintaining their religious beliefs in plural marriage. Compared to the FLDS, the AUB tends to have a more moderate lifestyle and less centralized authority.
Independent Fundamentalist Families
Not all modern polygamists belong to organized religious sects. Some families live independently, guided by personal interpretations of faith or personal choice rather than group leadership. These families are often discreet but may appear in public life or media, advocating for religious freedom and acceptance. They argue that their lifestyle is based on love, commitment, and shared values rather than coercion.
Polygamy Around the World
Polygamy is not unique to the United States. In many parts of the world, it is still legally or socially accepted. Countries in Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia allow polygamous marriages under Islamic or customary law. For instance, in nations such as Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia, men may legally have multiple wives if permitted by religious tradition.
However, even in regions where polygamy is accepted, attitudes are changing. Many younger generations are moving toward monogamy, viewing it as a more equal and modern form of partnership. Global awareness of women’s rights and education has also influenced how people view polygamous relationships.
Legal Status of Polygamy in the U.S.
In the United States, polygamy is illegal under both state and federal law. However, enforcement has become more complex in recent years. While formal polygamous marriages (with multiple marriage licenses) are prosecuted as bigamy, cohabitation with multiple partners under one household is harder to regulate.
In 2020, Utah passed a law that reduced the criminal penalty for consensual polygamy between adults from a felony to an infraction-similar to a traffic ticket. This change reflected a shift in approach rather than punishing individuals, the state aimed to reduce fear and encourage victims of abuse to come forward without legal consequences. Even so, coercion, underage marriage, and exploitation remain serious crimes that are actively prosecuted.
Reasons People Still Practice Polygamy
Despite the legal and social barriers, people continue to practice polygamy for various reasons. Some of the most common motivations include
- Religious beliefMany fundamentalist Mormons believe plural marriage is a divine commandment essential for eternal salvation.
- Cultural traditionIn some societies, polygamy is deeply rooted in cultural practices and family structures.
- Personal philosophyA few modern individuals view polygamy or polyamory as a valid alternative to monogamy, emphasizing freedom and emotional variety.
- Community supportIn some groups, plural families provide strong social and economic networks, helping members share responsibilities and resources.
Challenges Within Polygamist Communities
While some individuals describe their polygamous lives as fulfilling, others have faced challenges related to control, inequality, or abuse. In tightly controlled religious communities, women and children can experience restrictions on education, movement, and personal choice. Reports of forced marriages and underage relationships have also contributed to public concern and government intervention.
At the same time, not all polygamist families fit these negative stereotypes. Many modern practitioners emphasize consent, equality, and mutual respect among all partners. The diversity of experiences within polygamous relationships shows that there is no single story that defines these communities.
Media Portrayal and Public Perception
Television and documentaries have brought more attention to polygamist communities, shaping public understanding in both positive and negative ways. Shows like Sister Wives have portrayed plural families trying to live openly in modern America, helping normalize discussions around alternative family structures. However, other portrayals focus on criminal cases or cult-like control, which can reinforce fear and stigma.
Public opinion about polygamy remains divided. Some view it as a violation of moral and social norms, while others see it as a matter of religious liberty and personal choice. The ongoing debate reflects broader questions about freedom, family, and the limits of government regulation.
The Future of Polygamist Communities
Polygamist communities still exist today, though they are smaller, more diverse, and less centralized than in the past. With changes in law and culture, some groups are becoming more open and advocating for recognition, while others continue to live in isolation to preserve their traditions. Technology, media exposure, and social integration are gradually reshaping how these families interact with the outside world.
As society continues to evolve, the question of polygamy will likely remain complex. It sits at the intersection of faith, law, and personal freedom-areas that are constantly shifting with time. Whether one agrees or disagrees with the practice, understanding why polygamist communities still exist helps foster greater empathy and awareness of the diversity of human relationships in the modern world.