Biographies – Joseph Smith
There are many important individuals in all areas we study at GCSE History.
Here you can explore their details and importance.
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Joseph Smith |
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Era: 19th Century |
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Importance: Organised first Mormon permanent settlement at Salt Lake. |
Module: American West |
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Joseph Smith Smith was the founder and Prophet of the Mormons. He believed he had a vision from an Angel named Moroni and had he and hid followers were given a special task by God. Persecuted and scapegoated (blamed) the community moved many times. Firstly in Kirtland, Ohio but they were moved on after the 1837 financial collapse to Independence Missouri. Lastly the Mormons, now numbering many thousands, moved to Nauvoo, Illinois. Causing even more resentment and unrest Smith was killed by a mob. Although the details of his death are sketchy and unclear, possible murdered by an enraged gang or shot trying to escape from prison. What is clear is that Smith’s death in 1844 marked a turning point for the Mormons as their martyred leader was replaced by capable and skilled leader, Brigham Young. |
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