Joseph Smith, Jr.



Joseph Smith, Jr. (December 23, 1805 – June 27, 1844) was the principal founder and leader of the Latter Day Saint movement, also known as Mormonism, which includes such denominations as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the Community of Christ. Smith's followers revere him as a latter-day prophet.

Joseph Smith acquired many opponents and many believers throughout his life and is considered to be among the most influential individuals in American history. Smith's teachings were not welcomed by most in the existing Christian community. The doctrines he taught were considered to be blasphemy and contrary to their interpretation of The Bible. Others criticized Smith because of his immense political power — during his ministry he was a mayor, an opponent of slavery, and the commander of at least two militias (Zion's Camp and the Nauvoo Legion). Many of his detractors also opposed his practice of polygamy. Tensions with his enemies continuously escalated until June 27, 1844, when Smith and his brother Hyrum were shot and killed by a large mob in a prison shootout.

Adherents to denominations originating in the Latter Day Saint movement number around thirteen million. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (most commonly known as the "Mormon" Church) is by far the largest denomination, although other denominations are not insignificant in size, the largest of which is the The Community of Christ which numbers more than 275,000 members. Other offshoots of the Latter Day Saint movement are more modest, with membership ranging from hundreds of members to thousands of members.

Related References

 * Wikipedia - Joseph Smith, Jr.
 * JosephSmith.net - The official web site on Joseph Smith by the LDS Church.
 * JosephSmith.com