Coriantumr was a prominent figure in Nephite history, known for his apostasy and his subsequent role as a military leader for the Lamanite forces. A descendant of Zarahemla, he dissented from the Nephites, which positioned him as an adversary to his former people (Helaman 1:15). His physical prowess and reputed wisdom made him an appealing candidate to lead the Lamanite army under the direction of the Lamanite king Tubaloth (Helaman 1:16).
Coriantumr’s leadership came at a tumultuous time when the Nephite nation was weakened by internal contention. He capitalized on this discord and spearheaded a surprise attack that resulted in the capture of the critical Nephite stronghold, Zarahemla, thus causing the death of the chief judge, Pacumeni (Helaman 1:20-21). His aggressive campaign did not stop at the Nephite capital; he pushed his army towards the city of Bountiful with aspirations to conquer the northern territories of the Nephite lands (Helaman 1:23).
Coriantumr’s military career, however, was to be short-lived. Despite his initial success, his zealous march left his forces overextended and vulnerable. The Nephite generals Moronihah and Lehi mobilized and successfully led a counter-offensive that pushed back the Lamanite forces, ultimately leaving Coriantumr and his army encircled and defeated. Coriantumr himself was slain in the ensuing battle, marking both an end to his campaign and his life (Helaman 1:30, 32). Through his actions, he exemplified the perils of dissent and the impact such leadership can have on the course of Nephite history.