The Amalickiahites were a faction of Nephite dissenters who emerged as followers of the ambitious and cunning leader Amalickiah during the political upheavals approximately between 73 BC and 65 BC. Rooted in their disaffection with the existing Nephite government and their opposition to the pro-liberty policies championed by Captain Moroni, the Amalickiahites joined forces with Amalickiah in his bid for power and his subsequent efforts to subjugate the people to a monarchy (Alma 46:1-10). Their loyalty to Amalickiah aligned them with his cause and against the advocates of the Nephite system of judges and the title of liberty upheld by Moroni.
In a pivotal moment of internal strife, when Captain Moroni erected the title of liberty and galvanized the people against the threat of losing their freedoms, the Amalickiahites emerged as a defined group explicitly contrasted with the liberty-minded populace (Alma 46:28). As dissensions arose, Moroni acted decisively to quell the rebellion instigated by the Amalickiahites. Most members of this faction doubted the justice of their cause, and their numbers dwindled as they were either outmaneuvered by Moroni’s forces or persuaded to abandon their dissent (Alma 46:29). Ultimately, Moroni demanded they enter into a covenant to support the cause of freedom, under the threat of execution, making it clear that dissent based on the overthrows of their free government would not be tolerated (Alma 46:35).
Their military capabilities and strategic approach were significantly tested and found wanting during the Amalickiahites’ conflicts with the Nephite defenders, who were well-prepared and resolute in their defense. Their astonishment at the Nephite preparation for war (Alma 49:9) underscored the effectiveness of Moroni’s military strategies and the overall commitment of the Nephite society to their defense and way of life, contrasting starkly with the unsteady moral footing of the Amalickiahites. Consequently, the failure of the Amalickiahites to secure their objectives not only highlighted the competence of Nephite leadership but also served as a testament to the resolve of the Nephite people to maintain their liberties and the integrity of their societal structure in the face of divisive internal dissensions.