Derek R. Sainsbury

Bio

I have a Ph.D. in American History from the University of Utah and am the author of the groundbreaking book, Storming the Nation: the Unknown Contributions of Joseph Smith’s Political Missionaries

I have also authored several academic journal articles, book reviews, and conference papers. My research centers on the intersection of politics and Latter-day Saint history. I have and continue to contribute volunteer content for Doctrine and Covenant Central, FAIR - Faithful Answers to Criticisms of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and Public Square.

I enjoy presenting on Latter-day Saint history, history, religion, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, politics, current events, and youth and young adult religious themes. You can contact me here.

I am married to my high school sweetheart, Meredith Pettit. We are the proud parents of Briant (Amelia), Nathan (Kennedy), and Joshua (Ellie). I love spending time with my family (including our three dogs) and researching and writing history, particularly nineteenth-century Latter-day Saint history.

Education

In addition to his Ph.D. in American History, I also hold a Master of Public Administration from Brigham Young University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Utah.

Employment

I am an associate professor of Church History and Doctrine Scripture at Brigham Young University. Previously, I taught and administered for twenty-five years in the Seminaries and Institutes of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.