216 - 3-Term Senator Elbert Thomas, GI Bill Hero I Religion & Politics I Church History Matters

For decades, Utah's Elbert D. Thomas represented Latter-day Saints on the national stage as one of the most influential members of Congress you've probably never heard of. In this episode of Church History Matters, Scott Woodward and Casey Griffiths explore the remarkable life and political career of the faithful Latter-day Saint, educator, missionary, and U.S. Senator who served during some of the most pivotal years in American history. After serving a five-year mission in Japan, Thomas brought a global perspective to Washington, D.C., where he became a leading advocate for workers' rights, public education, scientific research, and social welfare during the Great Depression. Scott and Casey examine his strong support of Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs, his efforts to strengthen labor protections, expand educational opportunities, and help establish institutions such as the National Science Foundation. They also discuss his role in promoting the Civilian Conservation Corps, support for veterans' education, and his work toward greater federal investment in education and public welfare. The conversation also highlights Thomas's international vision. Long before the end of World War II, he warned about the persecution of European Jews, advocated for Jewish refugees fleeing Nazi oppression, and later became a vocal supporter of the newly formed United Nations and America's leadership in building a more peaceful postwar world. His experiences as an LDS missionary in Japan shaped his lifelong commitment to diplomacy, religious understanding, and international cooperation. How did a devoted Latter-day Saint become one of the Senate's most progressive voices? Why did his impressive political career end amid the political tensions of the early Cold War? Join Scott and Casey as they uncover the fascinating story of Elbert D. Thomas and explore how his faith, education, and public service intersected during one of America's most consequential eras.