Polygamy Legal States 2024

Polygamy, the practice of having multiple spouses simultaneously, is uniformly illegal across all states in the United States. This legal stance is rooted in historical efforts to regulate family structures and maintain societal norms. The Morrill Anti-Bigamy Act of 1862, followed by subsequent legislation, aimed to curb the practice, particularly among members of the Latter-day Saint movement who historically practiced polygamy. The Supreme Court upheld these laws, solidifying the illegality of polygamous unions in the country.

Despite its prohibition, polygamy has deep historical roots in various cultures and religions worldwide. In the United States, it gained prominence primarily through the teachings of Joseph Smith, founder of the Latter-day Saint movement, in the early 19th century. While Utah has historically been associated with polygamous communities, the practice remains illegal there as well as in every other state. Despite occasional challenges, the legal stance against polygamy remains steadfast, reflecting societal norms and legal principles that prohibit the practice nationwide.