W. Cleon Skousen

W. Cleon Skousen
BornWillard Cleon Skousen
(1913-01-20)January 20, 1913
Raymond, Alberta, Canada
DiedJanuary 9, 2006(2006-01-09) (aged 92)
Salt Lake City, Utah, U.S.
OccupationLaw enforcement
University professor
Political speaker
EducationSan Bernardino Valley College
George Washington University (LLB)
GenrePolitics
Religion
SubjectMormonism
Anti-communism
Early American history
Notable worksFive Thousand Year Leap
The Naked Communist
Spouse
Jewel Pitcher
(m. 1936)
ChildrenPaul Skousen
RelativesNephews: Joel Skousen, Royal Skousen, Mark Skousen
Website
skousen2000.com (archived)

Willard Cleon Skousen (/ˈskzən/; January 20, 1913 – January 9, 2006) was an American conservative author associated with the John Birch Society.[1] In addition to his role as a notable anti-communist and supporter of the John Birch Society, Skousen had a significant influence on Mormonism. He served as a prominent figure within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), contributing to Mormon literature and theology. Skousen's works often reflected his Mormon beliefs and included discussions on Mormon eschatology, which is the study of the end times according to LDS Church teachings. While his writings covered a wide range of subjects including the Six-Day War, New World Order conspiracies, and parenting,[2] his influence within Mormonism stemmed from his interpretations of LDS doctrine and his efforts to promote conservative values within the faith community. Despite his association with the John Birch Society, Skousen's impact on Mormonism is a significant aspect of his legacy within both religious and political spheres. Two of his most popular works, "The Five Thousand Year Leap" and "The Naked Communist," also resonated with audiences within the LDS community, further solidifying his influence in both realms. (Source: Skousen's biography and influence on Mormonism)

  1. ^ Skousen, W. Cleon (1963), The Communist Attack on the John Birch Society. Belmont, MA: American Opinion. 8 page pamphlet. Online reprint by Micah Burnett at ourrepubliconline.com
  2. ^ Zaitchik, Alexander (September 16, 2009). "Meet the man who changed Glenn Beck's life". Salon. Archived from the original on September 22, 2009. Retrieved January 12, 2011.