Giddianhi was a notorious figure in the history of the Nephite and Lamanite nations, holding the position of governor among the Gadianton robbers, a secret society known for its criminal workings and significant political influence. In approximately the year AD 16, as this society burgeoned into a substantial threat against the Nephite nation, Giddianhi boldly approached Lachoneus, the chief judge of the Nephites, with an epistle replete with guile and aggressive demands. In this communication, he arrogantly insisted that the Nephites surrender their lands, possessions, and even their freedoms, attempting to intimidate them through threats of destruction and flattery of deceit (3 Nephi 3:2-10).
Under the aegis of Giddianhi’s leadership, the robbers prepared to engage in conflict due to their inability to sustain themselves without thievery and plunder. The Nephites, united under the governance of Lachoneus and the military leadership of Gidgiddoni, sought divine assistance and strategically consolidated their resources and strength to withstand the foreboding assault (3 Nephi 3; 4:1). Giddianhi’s presumptuous assault in AD 19 culminated in a tremendous battle that led to a considerable slaughter of his forces, a stark testament to the avowed protection that the Nephites found in their God (3 Nephi 4:10–11). It was during this confrontation that Giddianhi, who had led his armies with audacity, met his demise—he was pursued, became fatigued from the conflict, and was ultimately overtaken and slain (3 Nephi 4:14).
The demise of Giddianhi served as a prelude to the ultimate disintegration of the Gadianton robber’s influence during that period. His death marked a pivotal point in the longstanding struggle between the robbers and the inhabitants of the land who sought to preserve their peace and liberties amidst the encompassing malice and corruption.