Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Joseph Smith Jr. (1805–1844) was the founding prophet and first president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Reliable summaries from both Wikipedia and the Church’s own history pages agree that he was born in Sharon, Vermont, later lived in western New York, and organized the church in 1830.

Accounts of his life describe a period of intense activity: he published sacred texts, introduced new teachings, gathered followers, and helped establish communities including Nauvoo, Illinois. His influence reached far beyond his own lifetime, shaping a religious tradition followed by millions around the world.

Smith’s story is also deeply tied to conflict. Contemporary histories note that his career brought strong support from believers as well as sharp opposition, and he was killed by a mob at Carthage Jail in Illinois in 1844. Whether readers approach him as a prophet, a historical figure, or both, he remains one of the most consequential religious founders in American history.