I asked Google AI if Mormonism is an Ethnic Anglo-Saxon / Norse Religion

 From Google AI:

Mormonism (officially The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) is not strictly an ethnic religion, but it is frequently described as an ethno-religious culture due to its history, strong communal identity, and specific ancestry patterns. While it has global, universalist aspirations, its roots and 19th-century growth were heavily tied to Anglo-American and Scandinavian populations. [Sources: Link 1, ... Link 2, ... Link 3]

1. Is Mormonism an Ethnic Religion?

• Definition: An ethnic religion is associated with a specific ethnic group (like Judaism), whereas a universalizing religion seeks converts globally (like Christianity, Islam, Buddhism).
• The Nuance: The LDS Church teaches that its message is for all people and is actively trying to grow globally.
• Cultural Ethnicity: However, in the Intermountain West (Utah/Idaho), a unique "Mormon culture" developed that is often passed down through families, creating an ethno-religious identity similar to the idea of "cultural Jews".
• Distinctiveness: Outsiders have sometimes viewed Mormons as a distinct ethnic group due to shared history, dietary laws (no alcohol/caffeine), and social cohesion. 

2. The Anglo-Saxon and Norse Connection

While the faith is open to all, early converts were heavily drawn from the British Isles and Scandinavia. 

• Anglo-Scando-Yankee Stock: Genetic and historical studies of Utah Mormons show high concentrations of descent from British and Scandinavian immigrants to America.
• 19th Century Gathering: Early doctrine encouraged converts to move to America, creating a dense population of Northern European ancestry in the "Mormon Corridor".
• "Blood of Israel" Doctrine: Historically, church leaders taught that many European converts were literal descendants of the lost tribes of Israel (specifically the tribe of Ephraim), which helped merge European ancestry with LDS theology. 

3. Shift Toward Diversity

• Global Expansion: While early Mormonism was dominated by Northern Europeans, missionary work has made the church highly diverse, with significant populations in Latin America, Africa, and the Pacific.
• Cultural Shift: The perception of it being a "white" or European religion is actively being replaced by a more global identity, although the historic pioneer, Utah-centric culture remains a strong, recognized part of its history. 

In summary, while Mormonism is a universalizing religion that accepts members from all backgrounds, it has a strong Anglo-Scando-Yankee cultural core due to its 19th-century history.