Joseph Smith Biography – Discover the life of Joseph Smith Jr., founder of Mormonism and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). From humble beginnings in Vermont to his dramatic death at 38, Smith remains one of the most influential—and polarizing—religious figures in American history.
Joseph Smith Jr. (December 23, 1805–June 27, 1844) was an American religious leader who founded Mormonism and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). At 24, he published the Book of Mormon (1830), claiming it was translated from golden plates revealed by an angel.
Joseph Smith Biography
| Field | Summary |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | Estimated under $100K at death in 1844 (~$3 million today) |
| Age | Born Dec 23, 1805; died June 27, 1844 (age 38) |
| Famous Quote | “No man knows my history” (1842) |
| Birthplace | Sharon, Vermont; raised in Palmyra, New York |
| Education | Limited formal schooling; self-educated through Bible study |
| Key Work | Translated and published the Book of Mormon (1830) |
| Major Accomplishments | Founded LDS Church; built Nauvoo, IL; gained 26,000 followers by 1844 |
| Family | Married Emma Hale; father of 11 (four survived infancy) |
| Recognition | Revered as a prophet by LDS Church members |
| 2025 Update | New biographies and continued digitization via the Joseph Smith Papers |
A Prophet’s Life: Visionary and Controversial
Joseph Smith’s biography is a blend of spiritual conviction, societal upheaval, and enduring legacy. Born in 1805, he claimed a series of divine visions that led him to restore what he believed was true Christianity. At just 24, he published the Book of Mormon, which he said was translated from golden plates shown to him by an angel named Moroni. By his death in 1844, he had established a new faith and led tens of thousands of followers.
Early Life: Faith Born in Poverty
Smith was the fifth of 11 children born to Joseph Sr. and Lucy Mack Smith. After repeated crop failures, his family moved to Palmyra, New York, in 1816. At age seven, Joseph suffered a severe leg infection that required surgery without anesthesia—an early sign of his resilience. His mother described him as imaginative and thoughtful.
Education: A Seeker Without Schooling
Due to poverty, Smith had little formal education, learning the basics of reading, writing, and arithmetic at home. His real education came through extensive Bible study during the fervent religious climate of the Second Great Awakening.
Career: Founder of a New Faith
The First Vision and the Book of Mormon
At 14, Smith claimed to see God and Jesus Christ in what became known as the “First Vision.” Later, in 1823, he said the angel Moroni revealed ancient golden plates, which he translated into the Book of Mormon by 1830. While critics question its origins, followers view it as divinely inspired scripture.
Founding the LDS Church
Smith officially established the Church on April 6, 1830, in Fayette, New York. He and his followers moved repeatedly—from New York to Ohio, Missouri, and finally Nauvoo, Illinois—often facing violent opposition. In Nauvoo, he served as both mayor and militia leader, building a city of over 12,000 people.
Controversy and Death
Smith’s leadership drew increasing scrutiny. His introduction of polygamy, reportedly marrying over 30 women, and his 1844 presidential campaign heightened tensions. After ordering the destruction of the Nauvoo Expositor newspaper for criticizing polygamy, he was arrested. On June 27, 1844, a mob killed Joseph and his brother Hyrum in Carthage Jail.
Financial Life: Modest in Death
Despite leading a growing religious movement, Smith likely died with under $100,000 in assets (roughly $3 million today). His ventures, including the failed Kirtland Safety Society bank, reflected both ambition and financial instability.
Memorable Quotes
- “No man knows my history.” — 1842
- “The Book of Mormon is the most correct of any book.” — 1841
- “I saw a pillar of light exactly over my head.” — 1838
Legacy: Lasting Impact
Smith’s influence endures. The LDS Church now has millions of members worldwide. He remains revered by followers as a prophet and criticized by others as a religious opportunist. His theological innovations, like baptism for the dead and eternal marriage, continue to shape Mormon doctrine.
Family and Personal Life
Smith married Emma Hale in 1827. The couple had 11 children, though only four survived infancy. His parents and siblings, particularly Hyrum, played key roles in his early religious efforts. Polygamy strained his relationship with Emma, a tension often cited in historical accounts.
Recognition: Prophet or Pariah?
Smith received no formal honors in his lifetime. However, leaders like Boston’s Mayor Josiah Quincy recognized his significant cultural influence, calling him a man who “shaped the minds of men.” Today, the LDS Church honors him as its founding prophet.
What’s New in 2025?
Two major biographies are slated for release in 2025:
- Joseph the Prophet by Richard Turley – A Church-commissioned, accessible look at Smith’s life and teachings.
- Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet by John Turner – A scholarly, critical examination of his influence.
Conclusion
Joseph Smith’s life story is one of conviction, complexity, and controversy. From translating the Book of Mormon to founding a religion that spans the globe, his influence is undeniable. At just 38 years old, he left behind a movement that still shapes religious discourse today. The 2025 biographies promise fresh insights into this enduringly controversial figure.
FAQs About Joseph Smith
What is Joseph Smith’s most famous quote?
“No man knows my history.” — JosephSmithPapers.org
Where did Joseph Smith grow up?
Born in Vermont, raised in Palmyra, New York.
What are his biggest achievements?
Founded the LDS Church, published The Book of Mormon, built Nauvoo.
How wealthy was he?
Estimated under $100K at death in 1844—equivalent to about $3M today.
What’s happening in 2025?
Two major biographies are set to be released, reigniting interest in his life.
