Joseph Smith Jr. was the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, often known as Mormonism. He was born in 1805 in Vermont and grew up in a family that faced financial difficulties. At the age of 14, Smith claimed to have had a vision where he saw God and Jesus Christ, which led him to feel called to restore the true church. In 1830, he published the Book of Mormon, which he translated from golden plates he claimed to have discovered, effectively establishing a new religious text alongside the Bible. Smith's leadership attracted a growing following, leading to the establishment of communities in Ohio, Missouri, and Illinois. However, his leadership was met with opposition and persecution, often stemming from differences in belief and social practices, including his controversial teachings on plural marriage. Under increasing pressure, Smith and his followers moved to Nauvoo, Illinois, where they built a thriving community. Joseph Smith served as mayor and military leader, but tensions continued to rise with neighboring communities. His life ended tragically in 1844 when he was killed by a mob while imprisoned. Smith's legacy continues to influence millions around the world through the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His teachings and writings, particularly the Book of Mormon, form the foundation of the faith he established, which emphasizes ongoing revelation and a personal relationship with God. Joseph Smith Jr. was born in 1805 in Vermont and is best known as the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, or Mormonism. He experienced a tumultuous upbringing, characterized by financial struggles. At just 14 years old, he reported a significant vision in which he encountered God and Jesus Christ, instilling in him a sense of divine calling to restore what he believed was the true church. In 1830, Smith published the Book of Mormon, a key religious text he claimed to have translated from golden plates. This marked the formal establishment of his religious movement and attracted a growing number of followers. However, his leadership faced significant challenges, including opposition from outsiders who disagreed with his teachings and practices, which included polygamy. Joseph Smith's life came to a violent end in 1844 when he was murdered by a mob while imprisoned. Despite his death, Smith's influence endures through the teachings and doctrines he established, particularly those contained in the Book of Mormon. His work continues to guide millions of adherents around the world today.