A new biography, Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet, presents a balanced examination of the controversial founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Historian John G. Turner draws on the recently published 27-volume Joseph Smith Papers to create the most comprehensive portrait to date of the man who inspired a major American-born faith. Smith’s church now ranks as the fourth-largest religious body in the U.S., with 6.9 million members.
A Charismatic and Controversial Figure
Born to poor farmers, Smith emerged from obscurity to become a religious innovator. His teachings and leadership sparked intense devotion, yet he also incited strong opposition. Turner outlines Smith’s multiple roles—prophet, politician, militia leader, and polygamist—while noting he often violated legal and social norms. Some see Smith as divinely inspired; others, like Turner, argue he was reckless and manipulative. Turner bluntly states, “I wouldn’t trust him with my money, my wife, or my daughter.”
Polygamy and Power Struggles
Turner devotes extensive analysis to Smith’s polygamy, confirming the prophet secretly married over 30 women, including teenagers and already-married women. The biography reveals that Smith misled his wife, followers, and the public about these unions. Critics argue this deception betrays his moral authority. LDS supporters, however, emphasize the historical context and spiritual motives that Smith claimed. The LDS Church’s own 2021 publication confirms most historians now accept the marriages as fact.
Expanding a Unique American Faith
Smith’s religious innovations included rewriting the Bible, introducing temple rituals, and declaring the existence of multiple gods. He taught that faithful believers could become gods themselves. Smith also claimed Native Americans descended from ancient Israelites and that Jesus had visited the Americas. Supporters view him as a restorer of true Christianity; skeptics dismiss his claims as fabricated. Turner maintains academic neutrality but acknowledges Smith’s lasting influence.
Legacy of Persecution and Division
Smith’s movement faced relentless violence and legal opposition. He was jailed and killed in 1844, a martyr to his followers and a threat to his critics. After his death, Brigham Young led the main church west, while Smith’s widow Emma stayed behind. The resulting schism continues today in separate Mormon denominations, some rejecting polygamy and others maintaining Smith’s original revelations.
Source:
Rise And Reckoning: New Biography Confronts The Myths And Realities Of Joseph Smith
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