In this LDS Classic we have an article originally written by Elder Orson Hyde of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles to a Missouri newspaper in 1862, during the height of the American Civil War. In this letter, Elder Hyde does a number of fascinating and insightful things.

First, he talks about how the events of the Civil War in Missouri were divine punishment on the people there for their persecution of the Saints.

Secondly, he explains how the Civil War itself is a fulfillment of a prophecy given by the Prophet Joseph Smith in 1832, which is D&C 87 today. He also explains how this connects to the imagery of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse in Revelation, specifically the Horseman of War and the opening of the Seven Seals.

Finally he teaches that the “demon of war” will move from America to Europe and issues a prediction of war there that fits perfectly what we now call World War I.

An excellent read for all the insights and prophecy contained herein.