Lilburn Boggs served in the military during the War of 1812 and later moved to Missouri, where he held various state positions, including lieutenant governor and governor. He issued a controversial order targeting Latter Day Saints, which was later rescinded. After surviving an assassination attempt, Boggs relocated to California, where he played roles in local governance and participated in the California Gold Rush. He was elected to the California State Assembly and later retired to a ranch in Napa County.

Lilburn Boggs's political career is marked by a blend of military service, legislative roles, and controversial executive decisions. His issuance of Missouri Executive Order 44, which sought to expel Latter Day Saints from Missouri, showcases a hardline approach to perceived threats, revealing a readiness to employ extreme measures for security. Despite this, his later roles in California, including serving as postmaster during the Gold Rush and being elected to the State Assembly, suggest adaptability and a pragmatic engagement with local issues. Boggs's survival of an assassination attempt further highlights the dangerous and tumultuous nature of his political environment.