Joseph Smith, Hyrum Smith & the “Resignation” Rumor Introduction A listener asked about a story taught by a political philosophy professor claiming that Joseph Smith became frustrated with the institutionalization of the Church, wished to step down as prophet, and wanted Hyrum Smith to replace him so Joseph could “simply be a priest.” This section … Read more
Martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith After the destruction of the Nauvoo Expositor press on June 10, 1844, public outrage spread rapidly through Hancock County and surrounding Illinois communities. Anti-Mormon newspapers such as the Warsaw Signal and the Quincy Whig condemned Joseph Smith and urged decisive action against Nauvoo. Although press destruction had precedent in … Read more
Carthage Conspiracy – Historical Overview This reconstruction presents only historical information, source analysis, and documentary context regarding the deaths of Joseph Smith and Hyrum Smith in 1844, the reliability of associated sources, and the methodology used by historians in evaluating alternative theories. Claims of New Interpretations of the Martyrdom A recent video has circulated claiming … Read more
Shaker Beliefs and the 1831 Mission Context The Shakers, formally known as the United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing, were a distinctive American religious movement practicing strict celibacy, communal property, and a disciplined lifestyle. They believed sexual relations—even within marriage—were spiritually corrupt, and their communities often raised children brought to them by outsiders, … Read more