The Amazing life and Timeline of Joseph Smith – w/ infographics

ldsflow August 18, 2024 Family and Friends, Infographics, Scripture / Angels 1 Comment 580 Views

Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, led a life marked by profound spiritual experiences, rapid organizational growth, and intense persecution. From 1835 to 1844, Smith’s prophetic career reached its apex, encompassing a period of remarkable achievements and devastating setbacks. This timeline traces the final decade of Smith’s life, highlighting key events that shaped both his personal journey and the development of the early Mormon Church. From the dedication of the Kirtland Temple to his martyrdom in Carthage Jail, these years saw Smith introduce revolutionary doctrines, establish new communities, and face escalating opposition. Through triumphs and trials, this timeline offers a glimpse into the complex and consequential life of a figure who left an indelible mark on American religious history.

Timeline of Joseph Smith’s Life

This timeline presents key events in Joseph Smith’s life from 1805 to 1844, with each date linked to a more detailed breakdown later in the article. Readers can explore the overview chronology and then delve deeper into specific events by following the links to expanded explanations.

Before getting to the content, here is a short two page infographic which provides a visual overview of select key events in Joseph Smith’s life from 1835 to 1844, highlighting major milestones in the early history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. For a more detailed exploration of these events, including their context and significance, refer to the expanded timeline and explanations below.

1805 Entered mortality in Sharon, Vermont.

On December 23, 1805, Joseph Smith Jr. was born in Sharon, Vermont, to Joseph Smith Sr. and Lucy Mack Smith. He was the fifth of eleven children in a family known for their strong work ethic and deep religious convictions. The Smiths were farmers, struggling to make ends meet in the harsh New England climate. Joseph’s birth came during a particularly cold winter, perhaps foreshadowing the challenges he would face throughout his life. Despite their humble circumstances, the Smith family was close-knit and supportive, providing young Joseph with a foundation of faith and perseverance that would shape his future role as a religious leader.

1816ā€“1817 Relocated with family to western New York.

In 1816, following a series of crop failures in Vermont, the Smith family made the difficult decision to relocate to western New York in search of better opportunities. This move was prompted by a devastating year known as “Eighteen Hundred and Froze to Death,” when unusual weather patterns caused widespread crop failures across the northeastern United States. The family first settled in Palmyra, New York, before eventually moving to nearby Manchester.

This relocation proved to be a pivotal moment in young Joseph’s life. The area around Palmyra was experiencing a period of intense religious revival, often referred to as the “Second Great Awakening.” This environment of spiritual fervor and competing religious ideologies would greatly influence Joseph’s formative years. It was in these woods near his new home that Joseph would later have his First Vision, setting in motion the events that would lead to the restoration of the Church. The move to New York, while born out of hardship, ultimately placed Joseph in the precise location where his prophetic calling would begin to unfold.

1820 Experienced divine visitation in sacred grove.

In the spring of 1820, at the age of fourteen, Joseph Smith experienced an event that would forever change his life and lead to the restoration of the gospel. Confused by the religious fervor in his community and unsure which church to join, Joseph turned to the Bible for guidance. Inspired by James 1:5, which instructs to ask God for wisdom, he decided to pray for divine direction.

One morning, Joseph walked to a secluded grove of trees near his family’s farm. There, he knelt in earnest prayer, seeking answers to his spiritual questions. What transpired next was extraordinary: Joseph reported that he was visited by two heavenly personages, whom he identified as God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. This remarkable theophany, now known as the First Vision, was a foundational event in the history of the Church. Joseph was told that none of the existing churches had the fullness of truth and that he should join none of them. Instead, he was informed that he would be instrumental in restoring Christ’s original church to the earth. This experience marked the beginning of Joseph’s prophetic calling and set the stage for the events that would follow in the coming years. The Sacred Grove, as it is now known, remains a place of profound significance for members of the Church, symbolizing the opening of a new dispensation of the gospel.

1823 Received heavenly visitation from angel Moroni.

On the night of September 21, 1823, three years after his First Vision, Joseph Smith had another pivotal spiritual experience. As he prayed in his bedroom for forgiveness and guidance, he was visited by an angelic being who introduced himself as Moroni. This heavenly messenger appeared to Joseph three times that night and once more the following day, each time delivering the same essential message.

Moroni informed Joseph about an ancient record inscribed on golden plates, buried in a nearby hill called Cumorah. This record, Moroni explained, contained the fullness of the everlasting gospel and the history of ancient inhabitants of the American continent. Joseph was told that he would be entrusted with translating this record, which would later become known as the Book of Mormon. The angel also spoke of priesthood authority that would be restored and other significant events that would unfold in Joseph’s life.

This visitation was crucial in setting the stage for Joseph’s role in the restoration of the gospel. It provided specific instructions and prophecies about his future work, including the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. The repeated visits from Moroni over the course of 24 hours emphasized the importance of the message and helped prepare Joseph for the monumental tasks that lay ahead. This event marked the beginning of Joseph’s education and preparation for his prophetic calling, initiating a period of instruction that would continue for several years before he would be allowed to obtain the golden plates.

1827 Wedded Emma Hale. Acquired ancient golden records.

The year 1827 marked two significant milestones in Joseph Smith’s life: his marriage and the acquisition of the golden plates.

On January 18, 1827, Joseph married Emma Hale in South Bainbridge, New York. Their union was initially opposed by Emma’s father, Isaac Hale, who was skeptical of Joseph’s claims about his divine calling. Despite this opposition, Joseph and Emma’s marriage would prove to be a strong and enduring partnership. Emma would become a crucial support to Joseph throughout his life and play a significant role in the early days of the Church, including acting as a scribe during the translation of the Book of Mormon.

Later that same year, on September 22, Joseph finally received the golden plates from the angel Moroni. This date was significant, as it marked exactly four years since Moroni’s first appearance to Joseph. As instructed, Joseph went to the Hill Cumorah where the plates were buried. There, after passing several tests of his character and resolve, he was entrusted with the ancient record. The acquisition of the plates was a pivotal moment, signaling the beginning of Joseph’s work to translate and publish the Book of Mormon.

The convergence of these two events in 1827 ā€“ his marriage to Emma and obtaining the golden plates ā€“ set the stage for the next phase of Joseph’s life. He now had a devoted companion to support him and the sacred record he had been prepared to translate. These developments would prove crucial as Joseph faced the challenging task of translating the plates while also dealing with increasing curiosity, skepticism, and sometimes hostility from those around him.

1829 Completed majority of Book of Mormon translation. Restored Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods.

The year 1829 was a period of intense spiritual activity and revelation for Joseph Smith, marked by two major events: the completion of the Book of Mormon translation and the restoration of priesthood authority.

In April 1829, Oliver Cowdery arrived in Harmony, Pennsylvania, to assist Joseph with the translation of the Book of Mormon. Their work progressed rapidly, with most of the translation completed in an astonishing 65-day period. This feat was viewed by believers as evidence of divine assistance, given the complexity and length of the text. The translation process involved Joseph using seer stones or the Urim and Thummim to receive the English text, which he would then dictate to Oliver or other scribes.

During this same period, a crucial event in the restoration of the gospel occurred. On May 15, 1829, while praying about baptism, Joseph and Oliver were visited by John the Baptist, who conferred upon them the Aaronic Priesthood. This priesthood gave them the authority to baptize, which they promptly did for each other in the nearby Susquehanna River.

Shortly after, likely in late May or early June, Peter, James, and John appeared to Joseph and Oliver, restoring the Melchizedek Priesthood. This higher priesthood gave them the authority to confirm members of the Church, give the gift of the Holy Ghost, and perform other sacred ordinances.

These events in 1829 were foundational to the establishment of the Church. The completion of the Book of Mormon translation provided the scriptural basis for the restored gospel, while the restoration of priesthood authority gave Joseph and Oliver the divine mandate to organize and lead the Church. This period set the stage for the formal organization of the Church the following year and established the doctrinal and ecclesiastical framework that would guide the fledgling religious movement.

1830 Published Book of Mormon. Established the Church. Began inspired revision of the Bible.

The year 1830 was pivotal in Joseph Smith’s life and in the history of the restored Church, marked by three significant events:

First, in March 1830, the Book of Mormon was published. After months of translation and preparation, an initial run of 5,000 copies was printed by E.B. Grandin in Palmyra, New York. This publication was a monumental achievement, providing tangible evidence of Joseph’s prophetic calling and introducing a new volume of scripture to the world. The Book of Mormon quickly became a powerful tool for missionary work and a cornerstone of the new faith.

On April 6, 1830, Joseph Smith officially organized the Church of Christ (later renamed The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) in Fayette, New York. This small gathering of about 50 people marked the formal establishment of the restored Church. The meeting included sustaining Joseph and Oliver as leaders, partaking of the sacrament, and performing baptisms. This event fulfilled prophecies Joseph had received and set in motion the organizational structure of the Church.

Later that same year, Joseph began work on an inspired revision of the Bible, often referred to as the Joseph Smith Translation. This project was not a traditional translation from ancient languages, but rather a revision based on revelatory insights. Joseph made significant changes and additions to the text, clarifying doctrinal points and restoring what he believed were lost truths. This work continued for several years and resulted in numerous important doctrinal contributions to the Church.

These three events in 1830 ā€“ the publication of the Book of Mormon, the organization of the Church, and the commencement of the Bible revision ā€“ were foundational in establishing the doctrinal and structural framework of the restored gospel. They represented the fulfillment of Joseph’s early visions and set the stage for the rapid growth and development of the Church in the years to come.

1831 Transplanted from New York to Ohio. Revealed Missouri as Latter-day Saint gathering place.

The year 1831 marked a significant transition for Joseph Smith and the newly established Church, characterized by two major developments:

In January 1831, following divine instruction, Joseph led the main body of the Church from New York to Kirtland, Ohio. This move was prompted by increasing persecution in New York and the promise of a more favorable environment in Ohio, where a group of converts led by Sidney Rigdon had already established a strong presence. The relocation to Kirtland represented the first major migration of the Church and would prove to be a crucial period of growth and development.

Kirtland quickly became a center of Church activity. It was here that many important revelations were received, administrative structures were developed, and the first temple of this dispensation would eventually be built. The move to Ohio also brought new converts into the fold, including many who would become key leaders in the Church.

Later that same year, in July 1831, Joseph received a revelation identifying Independence, Missouri, as the “center place” of Zion, the New Jerusalem spoken of in scripture. This revelation established Missouri as a second gathering place for the Saints, alongside Kirtland. Joseph and other Church leaders traveled to Missouri to dedicate the land and establish a settlement.

The concept of gathering to build Zion was a central tenet of the early Church, and this revelation about Missouri excited many members. It led to a period of two main centers of Church activity: Kirtland serving as the administrative and spiritual headquarters, and Missouri being developed as the future centerpiece of the millennial kingdom.

These events in 1831 set the stage for a complex period in Church history, with members spread across two main locations over 800 miles apart. This dual focus would shape the Church’s growth, challenges, and eventual persecutions in the coming years, as the Saints worked to establish themselves in both Ohio and Missouri.

1833 Concluded Bible revision. Printed Book of Commandments.

The year 1833 was marked by two significant accomplishments in the early Church’s efforts to establish its scriptural canon:

Firstly, Joseph Smith concluded his inspired revision of the Bible, a project he had begun in June 1830. This work, now known as the Joseph Smith Translation (JST), was not a traditional translation from ancient languages, but rather an inspired revision of the King James Version. Over the course of three years, Joseph made numerous changes, additions, and corrections to the biblical text based on revelations he received.

The JST provided clarification on many doctrinal points and restored what Joseph believed were plain and precious truths that had been lost over time. Some of the most significant changes included an expanded version of the creation account, additional details about the ministry of Enoch, and clarifications on the nature of God and the plan of salvation. While the full JST was not published during Joseph’s lifetime, portions of it were later incorporated into the Pearl of Great Price and the LDS edition of the King James Bible.

Secondly, 1833 saw the printing of the Book of Commandments in Independence, Missouri. This book was the first attempt to publish a compilation of Joseph Smith’s revelations. It contained 65 revelations, many of which would later be included in the Doctrine and Covenants.

However, the printing of the Book of Commandments was dramatically interrupted on July 20, 1833, when a mob attacked and destroyed the printing office in Independence. In a courageous act, sisters Mary Elizabeth and Caroline Rollins rescued some of the printed sheets, allowing a few copies to be salvaged and bound. Despite this setback, the effort to publish Joseph’s revelations continued, leading to the expanded Doctrine and Covenants in 1835.

These two events in 1833 – the completion of the Bible revision and the printing of the Book of Commandments – represented significant steps in codifying the doctrines and revelations of the restored Church. They helped establish a unique scriptural foundation that distinguished the Church from other Christian denominations of the time and continue to be important resources for members of the Church today.

1834 Commanded Zion’s Camp expedition to aid Missouri Saints.

In 1834, Joseph Smith led a significant and challenging expedition known as Zion’s Camp, which was a response to the persecution and expulsion of Church members from Jackson County, Missouri.

The previous year, Latter-day Saints in Missouri had been violently driven from their homes in Jackson County by local mobs who were threatened by the rapid growth of the Church and disagreed with their religious and political views. The Saints sought help from the Missouri governor, but to no avail. In response to this crisis, Joseph received a revelation instructing him to gather a group of men to march to Missouri and assist the displaced Saints.

Zion’s Camp was organized in Kirtland, Ohio, in May 1834. Joseph led a group of about 200 men, and a smaller group of about 20 women and children, on a arduous 900-mile journey to Missouri. The stated purpose was to help the Missouri Saints reclaim their lands and properties.

The expedition faced numerous challenges along the way, including exhaustion, hunger, thirst, and disease. A cholera outbreak near the end of the journey resulted in the deaths of several participants. Despite these hardships, Joseph used the journey as an opportunity to teach and train future leaders of the Church. Many of those who would later become prominent leaders, including Brigham Young and Wilford Woodruff, were part of this expedition.

Upon reaching Missouri in June, Joseph negotiated with state officials but was ultimately unsuccessful in securing the return of the Saints to their lands in Jackson County. While the expedition failed to achieve its stated military objective, it served several important purposes:

  1. It demonstrated the Saints’ willingness to sacrifice for their fellow members.
  2. It provided a crucible for testing and developing future Church leaders.
  3. It taught valuable lessons about unity, obedience, and faith under adversity.

After disbanding Zion’s Camp, Joseph returned to Kirtland. Although some participants were disappointed with the outcome, the experience proved invaluable in preparing leaders for future challenges, including the eventual migration to the Salt Lake Valley. The lessons learned during Zion’s Camp would influence Church leadership and organization for years to come.

1835 Instituted Quorum of Twelve Apostles. Released Doctrine and Covenants.

The year 1835 was marked by two significant developments in the organizational structure and scriptural canon of the Church:

First, on February 14, 1835, Joseph Smith instituted the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. This action fulfilled a revelation received in June 1829, which had spoken of twelve disciples who would be called. The establishment of this quorum was a crucial step in developing the leadership structure of the Church.

The initial members of the Quorum were chosen by the Three Witnesses to the Book of Mormon: Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, and Martin Harris. Many of those selected had proven their devotion and leadership capabilities during the Zion’s Camp expedition the previous year. The original Twelve included notable figures such as Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, and Parley P. Pratt.

The Quorum of the Twelve was given the responsibility to be “special witnesses of the name of Christ in all the world” and to take a leading role in the missionary work of the Church. This organizational development significantly strengthened the Church’s ability to expand and administer its growing membership.

Second, August 17, 1835 saw the publication of the first edition of the Doctrine and Covenants. This new volume of scripture expanded upon the earlier Book of Commandments, which had been disrupted in its printing in 1833. The Doctrine and Covenants contained many of Joseph Smith’s revelations, as well as lectures on doctrine known as the “Lectures on Faith.”

The publication of the Doctrine and Covenants was a landmark event in codifying the doctrines and practices of the Church. It provided members with authoritative teachings on a wide range of topics, from Church organization to theological concepts. This book, along with the Book of Mormon, established a unique scriptural foundation for the restored Church.

These two events in 1835 – the organization of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and the publication of the Doctrine and Covenants – were pivotal in solidifying the Church’s organizational structure and doctrinal framework. They provided essential tools for leadership, missionary work, and doctrinal instruction that would guide the Church through its next phase of growth and development.

1836 Dedicated Kirtland Temple. Witnessed celestial visitations of Christ, Moses, Elias, and Elijah.

The year 1836 was a pinnacle of spiritual experiences for Joseph Smith and the Church, centered around the completion and dedication of the Kirtland Temple:

On March 27, 1836, the Kirtland Temple was dedicated in a solemn and sacred ceremony. This was the first temple built by the Church in this dispensation, constructed at great sacrifice by the Saints during a time of poverty and persecution. The dedication was a profound spiritual event, with many members reporting visions, speaking in tongues, and other spiritual manifestations. Joseph Smith offered the dedicatory prayer, which is now recorded in Section 109 of the Doctrine and Covenants.

The week following the dedication was marked by a series of remarkable spiritual experiences, culminating on April 3, 1836. On this day, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery reported a series of heavenly visitations in the temple:

  1. Jesus Christ appeared to them, accepting the temple and declaring, “I have accepted this house, and my name shall be here; and I will manifest myself to my people in mercy in this house” (D&C 110:7).
  2. Moses appeared and committed to them the keys for the gathering of Israel from the four parts of the earth.
  3. Elias appeared and committed the dispensation of the gospel of Abraham, declaring that in them and their seed all generations after them would be blessed.
  4. Elijah appeared and declared, “Behold, the time has fully come, which was spoken of by the mouth of Malachiā€”testifying that he [Elijah] should be sent, before the great and dreadful day of the Lord comeā€”to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the children to the fathers, lest the whole earth be smitten with a curse” (D&C 110:14-15). He committed the keys of this dispensation to them.

These visitations were of profound significance to the Church. They fulfilled prophecies, bestowed pivotal priesthood keys, and laid the foundation for essential doctrines and practices, including temple work for the dead and the sealing of families for eternity.

The dedication of the Kirtland Temple and the subsequent visitations marked a high point in the early Church’s history. They provided divine validation of the work of restoration and equipped the Church with the authority and knowledge to move forward with its mission. However, this period of spiritual outpouring was soon followed by a time of trial, as persecution and internal dissension would challenge the Church in Kirtland.

1837 Inaugurated British missionary work. Faced internal strife and economic challenges in Kirtland.

The year 1837 was a period of both significant expansion and severe trials for Joseph Smith and the Church:

In June 1837, Joseph Smith sent the first missionaries to Great Britain, marking the beginning of the Church’s international missionary efforts. Apostle Heber C. Kimball led this first mission, accompanied by Orson Hyde and several others. Their arrival in Liverpool on July 20 initiated a remarkably successful period of proselytizing. Within just a few months, they had baptized hundreds of converts, primarily in the Preston area. This mission laid the foundation for rapid Church growth in the British Isles, which would become a significant source of converts and strength for the Church in the coming decades.

The success of the British mission was a bright spot in an otherwise challenging year for the Church in Kirtland, Ohio. The latter half of 1837 saw Joseph Smith and the Church facing severe internal strife and economic difficulties:

  1. Economic Crisis: The Kirtland Safety Society, a financial institution established by Joseph Smith and other Church leaders, collapsed during the nationwide financial panic of 1837. This failure led to significant financial losses for many Church members and leaders, including Joseph Smith himself.
  2. Internal Dissension: The economic troubles, combined with other factors, led to a period of apostasy within the Church. Several prominent leaders, including some of the Apostles, became disillusioned and turned against Joseph Smith. This dissension created tension and division within the Kirtland community.
  3. Increased Persecution: As internal problems mounted, external opposition to the Church also intensified. Joseph Smith faced numerous lawsuits and threats of violence.
  4. Leadership Challenges: The turmoil in Kirtland tested Joseph’s leadership. He spent considerable time and energy addressing the various crises, defending himself against critics, and working to maintain unity among the faithful.

Despite these challenges, Joseph Smith continued to receive revelations and work towards the establishment of Zion. However, the difficulties in Kirtland were severe enough that by the end of 1837, it was becoming clear that the Church’s center would need to shift. This set the stage for the eventual abandonment of Kirtland and the movement of Church headquarters to Far West, Missouri, in the following year.

The contrasting events of 1837 – the successful launch of international missionary work and the internal crises in Kirtland – illustrate the complex and often tumultuous nature of the Church’s early history. They demonstrate both the expanding reach of the restored gospel and the significant opposition and challenges faced by the fledgling Church.

1838 Departed Ohio for Missouri. Surrendered to militia. Imprisoned awaiting trial.

The year 1838 was one of dramatic upheaval and crisis for Joseph Smith and the Church, marked by relocation, conflict, and ultimately, imprisonment:

In January 1838, amid mounting tensions and threats in Kirtland, Joseph Smith and his loyal followers fled Ohio for Far West, Missouri. This marked the effective end of Kirtland as the Church’s headquarters. The journey to Missouri was difficult, taking place during the harsh winter months.

Upon arriving in Far West, Joseph worked to reorganize and strengthen the Church. However, tensions between the Latter-day Saints and their Missouri neighbors quickly escalated. Factors contributing to this conflict included:

  1. Rapid influx of Mormon settlers, which alarmed established residents
  2. Political differences, as the Saints often voted as a bloc
  3. Economic competition
  4. Religious misunderstandings and prejudices

The situation deteriorated into armed conflict, known as the “Mormon War” or the “1838 Missouri Mormon War.” Violent clashes occurred between Mormons and anti-Mormon mobs, including the Battle of Crooked River in October.

On October 27, 1838, Missouri Governor Lilburn Boggs issued the infamous “Extermination Order,” which stated that “the Mormons must be treated as enemies, and must be exterminated or driven from the State if necessary for the public peace.”

Facing overwhelming military force and the threat of massacre, Joseph Smith and other Church leaders surrendered to the Missouri militia on November 1, 1838, near Far West. This surrender was intended to prevent further bloodshed and protect the Mormon settlers.

Following his surrender, Joseph was imprisoned in Independence and then Richmond, Missouri, before being transferred to Liberty Jail on December 1, 1838. He was held there with several other Church leaders under harsh conditions, awaiting trial on charges of treason, murder, arson, burglary, robbery, larceny, and perjury.

During his imprisonment, which lasted until April 1839, Joseph wrote several important letters to the Church, portions of which are now canonized in the Doctrine and Covenants (sections 121, 122, and 123). These writings contain profound teachings on priesthood, perseverance in the face of adversity, and the nature of God’s dealings with His children.

The events of 1838 represented one of the most severe crises faced by the early Church. The forced exodus from Ohio, the violent conflict in Missouri, and Joseph’s imprisonment tested the faith of the Saints and threatened the very existence of the Church. However, these trials also forged a stronger, more resilient community of believers and produced some of Joseph’s most enduring teachings.

1839 Eluded captors. Established new settlement in Illinois. Petitioned President Van Buren for Missouri restitution.

The year 1839 marked a turning point for Joseph Smith and the Church, characterized by escape, resettlement, and a quest for justice:

In April 1839, while being transferred to another location for trial, Joseph Smith and his fellow prisoners managed to escape their guards. There are varying accounts of how this occurred, but it’s generally believed that some of the guards may have intentionally allowed the escape due to sympathy for the prisoners or doubts about the legitimacy of the charges. Joseph and the others made their way to Illinois, where many of the Saints had already fled following the expulsion from Missouri.

Upon reaching Illinois, Joseph immediately set about establishing a new gathering place for the Church. He purchased land in Commerce, Illinois, a small, swampy settlement on the banks of the Mississippi River. Joseph renamed the settlement Nauvoo, based on a Hebrew word meaning “beautiful place” or “city beautiful.” Despite initial challenges including widespread illness due to the swampy conditions, Nauvoo would grow rapidly over the next few years to become one of the largest cities in Illinois.

In the fall of 1839, Joseph Smith, along with other Church leaders, traveled to Washington D.C. to seek redress for the persecution and property losses suffered by the Saints in Missouri. They met with President Martin Van Buren on November 29, presenting a formal petition outlining the injustices faced by the Church members and requesting federal intervention and compensation.

The meeting with President Van Buren was ultimately unsuccessful. Van Buren, concerned about political implications and the issue of states’ rights, famously told Joseph, “Your cause is just, but I can do nothing for you.” This rejection by the federal government deeply disappointed Joseph and reinforced his belief in the need for the Saints to establish their own community where they could live and worship in peace.

Despite this setback, Joseph continued his efforts to secure justice and compensation through legal and political channels. He also focused on building up Nauvoo, establishing it as a center of Mormon religious and cultural life. The city was granted a liberal charter by the Illinois legislature, which allowed for a degree of autonomy and would play a significant role in the coming years.

The events of 1839 – the escape from imprisonment, the founding of Nauvoo, and the appeal to the federal government – represented both an end and a beginning. They marked the close of the Missouri period of Church history and the start of a new era in Nauvoo. This new beginning brought hope and opportunity, but also set the stage for future conflicts that would ultimately lead to Joseph’s martyrdom and the Saints’ exodus to the West.

1841 Appointed lieutenant general of Nauvoo Legion militia.

In 1841, Joseph Smith’s role as both spiritual and civic leader in Nauvoo expanded significantly with his appointment as Lieutenant General of the Nauvoo Legion. This event was part of the broader development of Nauvoo as a semi-autonomous city under its unique charter. Here are the key points about this appointment:

  1. Nauvoo Charter: The Illinois state legislature granted Nauvoo a liberal city charter in December 1840, which went into effect in February 1841. This charter allowed for the creation of a municipal court, university, and an independent militia.
  2. Formation of the Nauvoo Legion: Under the provisions of the charter, the Nauvoo Legion was established as a semi-autonomous militia, separate from other state militias. It was technically part of the Illinois state militia but operated under the city’s control.
  3. Joseph Smith’s Appointment: As part of the Legion’s formation, Joseph Smith was commissioned as its Lieutenant General. This was the highest rank in the Illinois militia, equal to that held by the Governor of Illinois as commander-in-chief of the state militia.
  4. Significance of the Role: This position gave Joseph Smith considerable military authority within Nauvoo. The Legion grew to include nearly all able-bodied men in Nauvoo, eventually numbering around 3,000 troops.
  5. Public Image: Joseph Smith embraced the role, often appearing in full military regalia for parades and reviews. This added to his public image as both a spiritual and temporal leader of his people.
  6. Controversy: The size and autonomy of the Nauvoo Legion, as well as Joseph Smith’s prominent role within it, caused concern among some non-Mormon neighbors and contributed to growing tensions in the region.
  7. Protection for the Saints: For Church members, the Legion represented protection against the kind of mob violence they had experienced in Missouri. It was seen as a means to prevent further persecution.

The appointment of Joseph Smith as Lieutenant General of the Nauvoo Legion was a significant event in the Nauvoo period of Church history. It exemplified the unique blend of religious and civil authority that characterized Joseph’s leadership in Nauvoo, and it played a role in both the growth of the city and the conflicts that would ultimately lead to the Saints’ expulsion from Illinois. The Legion would remain a point of contention until its disbandment by the Illinois legislature in 1845, after Joseph’s death.

1842 Founded Female Relief Society. Introduced sacred temple ordinances. Elected Nauvoo mayor.

1842 was a pivotal year for Joseph Smith and the Church, marked by significant organizational, spiritual, and civic developments:

  1. Founding of the Female Relief Society:
    On March 17, 1842, Joseph Smith organized the Female Relief Society of Nauvoo. This organization, initially led by Emma Smith, was established to provide relief to the poor and needy and to strengthen the moral and spiritual lives of women in the Church. Joseph declared that the Relief Society was to be “not only to relieve the poor, but to save souls.” This organization has since grown to become one of the largest women’s organizations in the world.
  2. Introduction of Sacred Temple Ordinances:
    Throughout 1842, Joseph introduced and began administering sacred temple ordinances to a select group of faithful members. These ordinances included:

    • The endowment ceremony, which Joseph began administering on May 4, 1842, in the upper room of his Red Brick Store in Nauvoo.
    • The sealing ordinance, which allowed for the eternal marriage of husbands and wives.
    • Baptisms for the dead, which had been introduced earlier but continued to be performed.

These ordinances represented a significant expansion of the Church’s doctrines related to salvation, eternal families, and work for the dead. They would later be central to the purpose of Latter-day Saint temples.

  1. Election as Nauvoo Mayor:
    In February 1842, Joseph Smith was elected as the mayor of Nauvoo. This position added to his already considerable influence in the city, combining his spiritual leadership with civic authority. As mayor, Joseph worked to develop Nauvoo’s infrastructure, economy, and defenses.

Other notable events in 1842 included:

  • The publication of the Book of Abraham as part of the Pearl of Great Price.
  • Increased scrutiny and opposition from those outside the Church, including accusations of an attempted assassination of former Missouri governor Lilburn Boggs.
  • The beginning of the practice of plural marriage among a small group of Church leaders, though this was not publicly acknowledged at the time.

The developments of 1842 reflected the multifaceted nature of Joseph Smith’s leadership and the rapid evolution of the Church’s doctrines and practices during the Nauvoo period. The introduction of temple ordinances, in particular, would have far-reaching effects on the theology and practices of the Church. At the same time, Joseph’s increasing temporal power and the unique practices of the Church were contributing to growing tensions with neighbors that would eventually lead to conflict.

1843 Documented revelation on plural marriage and eternal unions.

In 1843, Joseph Smith recorded a significant revelation on plural marriage and eternal unions, now known as Section 132 of the Doctrine and Covenants. This revelation formalized and expanded upon teachings that Joseph had been privately introducing to select Church members over the previous few years. Key aspects of this revelation include:

  1. Eternal Marriage: The revelation introduced the concept of eternal marriage, teaching that marriages performed by proper priesthood authority could last beyond death and throughout eternity.
  2. Celestial Marriage: It described a highest form of marriage covenant, called celestial marriage, which was necessary for exaltation in the highest degree of the celestial kingdom.
  3. Plural Marriage: The revelation provided scriptural justification for the practice of plural marriage (polygamy), citing examples from the Old Testament such as Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David, and Solomon.
  4. Sealing Power: It elaborated on the concept of sealing power, by which familial relationships could be made eternal.
  5. New and Everlasting Covenant: The revelation introduced this term, encompassing both eternal marriage and plural marriage as part of a broader covenant relationship with God.
  6. Conditions and Regulations: It outlined specific conditions under which plural marriage could be practiced, emphasizing the need for proper authority and righteous living.

While the revelation was recorded on July 12, 1843, it was not immediately made public. Joseph had been teaching these principles privately to a select group of trusted associates for some time. The practice of plural marriage remained secret during Joseph’s lifetime, known only to a small circle of Church leaders and members.

The introduction of plural marriage was extremely controversial, causing significant internal tension within the Church leadership and Joseph’s own family. Emma Smith, Joseph’s first wife, struggled greatly with this teaching and practice.

It’s important to note that while this revelation authorized the practice of plural marriage, it also set strict guidelines for its implementation. The revelation emphasized that plural marriage was only to be practiced under specific circumstances and with proper authority.

The doctrines introduced in this revelation, particularly those relating to eternal marriage and family relationships, remain fundamental to Latter-day Saint theology today, even though the practice of plural marriage was officially discontinued by the Church in 1890.

This 1843 revelation had profound and lasting impacts on the Church, influencing its theology, practices, and public perception. It contributed to the tensions that would lead to Joseph Smith’s martyrdom in 1844 and played a significant role in the Church’s history throughout the 19th century.

1844 Declared candidacy for U.S. presidency. Martyred by violent mob.

The year 1844 was a tumultuous and ultimately tragic one for Joseph Smith and the Church, marked by political ambitions and culminating in Joseph’s martyrdom:

  1. Declaration of Candidacy for U.S. Presidency:
    In January 1844, Joseph Smith announced his candidacy for President of the United States. His platform included:
  • Abolition of slavery through compensated emancipation
  • Reform of the prison system
  • Annexation of Texas and Oregon
  • Reduction of the size and salary of Congress
  • Establishment of a national bank
  • Protection of religious freedom

Joseph’s candidacy was seen as a way to advocate for the rights of the Latter-day Saints and to promote his vision for the nation. While he had little chance of winning, the campaign allowed him to articulate his political views and raise awareness about the persecution the Church had faced.

  1. Escalating Tensions:
    Throughout the first half of 1844, tensions between the Latter-day Saints and their neighbors in Illinois continued to escalate. Several factors contributed to this:
  • The practice of plural marriage, though still secret, was becoming known
  • Political and economic power of Nauvoo
  • Destruction of the Nauvoo Expositor, a dissident newspaper, on Joseph’s orders as mayor
  1. Arrest and Imprisonment:
    On June 24, Joseph and his brother Hyrum surrendered to authorities in Carthage, Illinois, on charges related to the destruction of the Nauvoo Expositor. They were held in Carthage Jail.
  2. Martyrdom:
    On June 27, 1844, a mob of about 200 men with blackened faces stormed the Carthage Jail. In the ensuing attack:
  • Hyrum Smith was shot and killed almost immediately
  • Joseph attempted to defend himself with a smuggled pistol, then tried to escape through a window
  • Joseph was shot multiple times and fell from the window, dying shortly after

The martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith marked a critical moment in Church history. It left the Church without its founder and prophet, creating a leadership crisis. It also galvanized the faith of many members and became a defining event in Latter-day Saint memory and identity.

Aftermath:

  • The deaths of Joseph and Hyrum shocked both the Latter-day Saint community and the broader public
  • A succession crisis ensued, eventually resulting in Brigham Young leading the majority of the Church
  • Tensions in Illinois continued to escalate, ultimately leading to the exodus of the Saints from Nauvoo to the West in 1846-1847

Joseph Smith’s candidacy for the U.S. presidency and his subsequent martyrdom in 1844 represented both the height of his ambitions and the tragic end of his life. These events had profound and lasting impacts on the Church, shaping its future direction and solidifying Joseph’s place as a revered martyr in Latter-day Saint tradition.

Conclusion to the amazing life of Joseph Smith

This timeline of Joseph Smith’s life from 1835 to 1844 encapsulates a period of remarkable growth, profound spiritual experiences, and intense challenges for both Smith and the early Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These pivotal years saw the establishment of crucial Church institutions, the expansion of its doctrinal foundations, and the realization of Joseph’s vision for a gathered community of Saints.

The period began with organizational developments like the formation of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles and the publication of the Doctrine and Covenants, providing structure and scripture to the fledgling church. Spiritual high points, such as the dedication of the Kirtland Temple and the reported divine visitations, bolstered faith and provided divine validation for the work of restoration.

However, these years were also marked by significant trials. Economic challenges, internal dissension, and external persecution led to the abandonment of Kirtland and conflicts in Missouri, culminating in Joseph’s imprisonment. The founding of Nauvoo represented a new beginning, but also set the stage for escalating tensions with neighbors.

Throughout this period, Joseph continued to introduce new doctrines and practices, including temple ordinances and plural marriage, which profoundly influenced the Church’s theology and culture. His roles expanded beyond spiritual leader to include military commander, city mayor, and even presidential candidate, reflecting the intertwining of religious and civic life in Nauvoo.

The timeline concludes with Joseph’s martyrdom in 1844, a tragic event that marked the end of his earthly ministry but cemented his legacy as prophet and martyr in the Latter-day Saint tradition. This period from 1835 to 1844 was transformative for the Church, laying the groundwork for its future growth and development, while also setting in motion events that would lead to the Saints’ exodus to the American West.

In sum, these years represent a microcosm of Joseph Smith’s prophetic career – filled with revelation and innovation, marked by persecution and resilience, and ultimately sealed by martyrdom. The events of this period continue to shape the theology, practices, and identity of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to this day.

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