Joseph Smith and the United States Presidency

Delusions of Grandeur or Genuine Ambitions?

Seminar paper from the year 2010 in the subject Politics - International Politics - Region: USA, , language: English, abstract: Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism, started more than a religion; he led a political and a cultural movement that is still felt in contemporary American politics. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints distinguishes itself as one of the fastest growing religious denominations in the United States of America. In 1844, Joseph Smith declared himself a contender for the presidential seat, a decision that perhaps received more scrutiny from his enemies than any other decision during his lifetime. Former studies of the life of Joseph Smith often contain half-truths and attempts to desecrate his character while giving little credit to the larger role he plays in the history of American politics and religion. This study provides an interdisciplinary look at his presidential campaign, and his true intentions for running. Joseph Smith possessed sincere political aspirations for the protection of all oppressed peoples. His campaign solidified his place not only in American religious history, but also in American political history.