Joseph Smith, Jr.

Date of Birth: December 23, 1805

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: June 27, 1844

Biography

Joseph Smith, Jr. was an American religious leader and the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, which gave rise to Mormonism. Born on December 23, 1805, in Sharon, Vermont, he was the fifth child of Joseph Smith Sr. and Lucy Mack Smith. Smith claimed to have experienced visions from a young age, starting with an event known as the First Vision in 1820, in which he described seeing God the Father and Jesus Christ. He stated that he was later visited by an angel named Moroni, who revealed the location of golden plates that contained the writings of ancient prophets. Smith translated these plates into what is now known as the Book of Mormon, first published in 1830. Smith’s teachings attracted a following, and he organized The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) on April 6, 1830. As the movement grew, it faced significant opposition, leading Smith and his followers to relocate several times, ultimately settling in Nauvoo, Illinois. Smith’s leadership extended beyond spiritual guidance; he was a mayor, a candidate for the U.S. presidency, and a militia leader. Smith’s life was marked by controversy, including issues related to polygamy and clashes with both governmental and religious authorities. On June 27, 1844, Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum were killed by a mob while imprisoned in Carthage, Illinois.

5 Interesting Facts about Joseph Smith, Jr.

1. Joseph Smith, Jr. claimed to have translated the Book of Mormon from golden plates inscribed in an ancient language he called “Reformed Egyptian.”

2. The city of Nauvoo, Illinois, which Smith helped establish, quickly grew to rival the size of Chicago during his leadership.

3. Smith’s introduction of the practice of polygamy within the church remains one of the most controversial aspects of his legacy.

4. He ran for President of the United States in 1844 on a platform that included the abolition of slavery and the establishment of a national bank.

5. Joseph Smith was a Freemason, and many of the symbols and rituals of Freemasonry influenced the development of LDS temple ceremonies.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Joseph Smith, Jr.

1. “The Book of Mormon is the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion.”

2. “When the Lord commands, do it.”

3. “I teach them correct principles and they govern themselves.”

4. “Happiness is the object and design of our existence.”

5. “The secret of masonry is to keep a secret.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Joseph Smith, Jr. did not achieve significant personal wealth during his lifetime. His highest net worth is not well-documented but is believed to have been modest.

Children

Joseph Smith, Jr. and his wife Emma Hale Smith had eleven children, five of whom survived to adulthood: Joseph Smith III, Frederick Granger Williams Smith, Alexander Hale Smith, David Hyrum Smith, and Emma Smith (who died as an infant).