AI Overview - Did Joseph and Brigham traffic young girls to themselves?

AI overview of questions…Did Joseph and Brigham Young traffick young girls to themselves… Whether Joseph Smith or Brigham Young engaged in human trafficking of young girls is a complex question with a range of interpretations and historical evidence:  Regarding Joseph Smith:  Evidence of relationships with young women: Historical records show that Joseph Smith married or was sealed to several young women, including some who were 14 years old.  Controversial aspects: Some interpretations and criticisms of his actions, especially by today's standards, suggest potential for human trafficking. One source specifically states that Smith could be considered a sexual predator for approaching these women and using his influence to pressure them into marriage. It is important to remember, however, that these interpretations are based on modern definitions of human trafficking and the historical and cultural context of the time needs to be considered.  No conclusive documentation of consummation with the youngest wives: While sexual relations are documented in several plural marriages with older women, there is no documentation suggesting that the relationships with the two 14-year-old wives were consummated.  Regarding Brigham Young:  Marriages to minors: Brigham Young also married or was sealed to young women. For example, he married 16-year-old Lucy Bigelow when he was 45, and 15-year-old Sarah Ephramina “Minnie” Jensen when he was 57.  Instruction to delay consummation: Brigham Young instructed polygamous men to wait until younger brides were at least 18 before consummating their sealings. There is some debate as to whether this policy originated with Smith or was implemented by Young.  Controversial actions: Some sources claim that Mormon missionaries in the 19th century under Brigham Young's leadership convinced hundreds of young Scandinavian girls to emigrate to Utah where they were subsequently isolated and married to older men. However, more information is needed to confirm the details of this claim.  Overall:  Differing interpretations: The definition of human trafficking involves exploitation and coercion. While some historians and critics argue that the relationships described, particularly those involving minors or intermediaries, could be seen as aligning with this definition, others argue for a more nuanced interpretation, considering the historical and cultural context.  Important Considerations:  Modern vs. Historical Standards: It's crucial to acknowledge that modern standards of consent and marriage age differ significantly from those in the 19th century.  Fragile Evidence: Records from this era are often incomplete or fragmented, making definitive conclusions challenging.  Therefore, whether the actions of Joseph Smith and Brigham Young constitute human trafficking is a matter of ongoing debate and interpretation, heavily dependent on the historical lens used and the definition of trafficking applied.