Pachus emerged as a noteworthy figure in Nephite history as the king of a faction of dissenters during a period of internal conflict around 62 B.C. His ascent to power coincided with a grave time of external threat from the Lamanites and internal turmoil within the Nephite government. Pachus managed to usurp control of Zarahemla, the Nephite capital, and displaced Pahoran I, the legitimate chief judge and governor. Not content with mere power in Zarahemla, Pachus facilitated a significant act of treachery by allying with the Lamanites, further endangering the Nephite people by halting the provision of necessary supplies to their armies (Alma 61:3-5).
This dangerous alliance promised Pachus continued kingship over Zarahemla should the Lamanites succeed in their conquest of Nephite lands (Alma 61:8). However, his rule was short-lived. Pahoran I’s call for aid was answered by Captain Moroni, a zealous defender of Nephite liberty. The combined forces of Moroni and Pahoran I confronted the rebels in a decisive battle at Zarahemla. The battle resulted in the death of Pachus and the arrest of his followers (Alma 62:6-8). After the conflict, the followers of Pachus faced judgment according to Nephite law, and those who continued to oppose the Nephite cause were executed (Alma 62:9-10). Pachus’s insurrection remains a conspicuous reminder of the threats posed by internal dissension during times of external danger in Nephite history.