James E. (James Edward) Talmage

Born in Hungerford, Berkshire, England, in 1862, he later emigrated with his family to Utah and built an unusual career that joined science, teaching, and church service. Sources consistently describe him as a chemist and geologist as well as an educator, and he went on to lead both LDS University and the University of Utah at different points in his career.

He is especially well known in Latter-day Saint history for his writing. His books Jesus the Christ and The Articles of Faith helped shape religious study for generations of readers, and his reputation as a serious, disciplined thinker made him one of the most recognized intellectual figures in early twentieth-century Mormon life.

In 1911, he became a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in that role until his death in 1933. That combination of scientist, teacher, and religious leader gives his life story a distinctive place in both Utah history and the history of the church.