Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was born in 1805 in Vermont. He grew up in a religious family and, at a young age, reported a series of visions that led him to believe he was chosen to restore the true gospel. In 1820, Smith claimed to have received a vision known as the First Vision, where he saw God and Jesus Christ, which set the foundation for his later religious teachings. After this experience, Smith began translating what he described as the golden plates, which he claimed to have received from the angel Moroni. This project resulted in the Book of Mormon, published in 1830, which serves as a key scripture for Latter-day Saints alongside the Bible. Smith's teachings emphasized the importance of revelation and ongoing guidance from God. Smith’s leadership included the establishment of several communities and the building of temples, which were central to Latter-day Saint practices. He faced significant opposition and persecution but continued to cultivate a religious movement that attracted thousands of followers. His life ended tragically in 1844 when he was killed by a mob in Illinois, solidifying his status as a martyr among his followers. Joseph Smith, born in 1805 in Vermont, was instrumental in founding the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His early religious experiences led him to believe he was chosen by God for a special purpose, culminating in what he called the First Vision in 1820. After this pivotal event, Smith translated the golden plates into the Book of Mormon, published in 1830. This scripture, along with the Bible, laid the foundation for Latter-day Saint beliefs, highlighting the need for ongoing divine revelation. Despite facing persecution, Joseph Smith built a religious community and introduced significant practices like temple worship. His life ended violently in 1844, but he remains a central and revered figure in Latter-day Saint history.