The Nephite lands have been pushed far to the north. The Nephites fortify what has traditionally been the northernmost boundary of their territory, providing confirmation of the hypothesis that they had not regained lands as far south as Zarahemla. At the narrow pass, Mormon is taking advantage of the mountains as natural fortifications, while the pass itself acts as an escape route should their defenses fail. As Mormon continues to describe this final war, it becomes obvious that, in the last three hundred years, the Nephites have migrated north, establishing several settlements north of the narrow pass. Thus, at Mormon’s rear was a full support and supply system, with a narrow and defensible front. It was an ideal defensive position.