The Origins of Mormonism: A Brief History

Explore the foundational events and figures behind the Latter-day Saint movement, from Joseph Smith's early visions to the establishment of the Church.

By Garret Merkley · Explainer · Jun 2, 2026

Branched from The Westward Migration of the Latter-day Saints to Utah

Quick take

Mormonism originated in the early 19th century in the United States through the experiences of Joseph Smith.
It began with Smith's 'First Vision' of God and Jesus Christ, followed by the translation of the Book of Mormon from ancient golden plates.
The Church of Christ (later The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) was formally organized in 1830 in Fayette, New York.
Early members faced significant persecution, leading to migrations and the establishment of new communities.

Mormonism, formally known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), originated in the early 19th century in the United States. It began with the experiences and teachings of Joseph Smith Jr., who claimed to have received divine revelations that restored what he believed to be the original church established by Jesus Christ.

The First Vision and the Book of Mormon

The foundational event of Mormonism is Joseph Smith's "First Vision" in 1820. As a 14-year-old living in Palmyra, New York, Smith, seeking guidance amidst a period of religious revival, prayed in a grove of trees. He reported seeing God the Father and Jesus Christ, who told him that all existing churches were astray and that he should join none of them. This vision, according to Smith, marked the beginning of a new dispensation.

Three years later, Smith reported being visited by an angel named Moroni, who directed him to a set of golden plates buried in a nearby hill. These plates, written in an ancient language, contained a record of ancient American civilizations and their interactions with God, including a visit from Jesus Christ after his resurrection. From 1827 to 1829, Smith, with the help of scribes, translated these plates into what became the Book of Mormon, published in 1830. This book serves as a companion scripture to the Bible for Latter-day Saints.

Early Church Organization and Growth

On April 6, 1830, Joseph Smith formally organized "The Church of Christ" (later renamed The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) in Fayette, New York, with six initial members. The early church emphasized communal living, missionary work, and the establishment of Zion, a righteous community. Early converts were drawn by the claims of restored ancient Christianity, new scripture, and charismatic leadership.

As the church grew, its distinct beliefs and practices, including the communal economic system known as the United Order and later, polygamy (though practiced by only a minority and officially discontinued by the mainstream church in 1890), led to significant social and political friction. This often resulted in persecution and forced migrations, first from New York to Ohio, then to Missouri, and ultimately to Nauvoo, Illinois, where Smith was murdered by a mob in 1844.

The origins of Mormonism are significant because they lay the groundwork for a unique American-born religious movement that has grown into a global faith with millions of members. Understanding these early events—the claims of divine revelation, the production of new scripture, and the establishment of a distinct religious community—is crucial for comprehending the faith's core beliefs, its historical trajectory, and its enduring influence on American culture and the settlement of the American West.

What is the core difference between Mormonism and traditional Christianity?

The core difference lies in the belief that Joseph Smith restored the original church and gospel of Jesus Christ, which had been lost through apostasy after the death of the apostles. This includes new scripture (the Book of Mormon), additional revelations, and a different understanding of God, salvation, and priesthood authority.

Who was Joseph Smith?

Joseph Smith Jr. (1805-1844) was the founder and first prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He claimed to have received numerous divine revelations, translated the Book of Mormon, and established the church's initial structure and doctrines.

Where did the term "Mormonism" come from?

The term "Mormonism" comes from the Book of Mormon, which is named after Mormon, an ancient prophet who compiled much of the record. While widely used, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints prefer to be called "Latter-day Saints" or "members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" to emphasize Jesus Christ as central to their faith.

Why were early Latter-day Saints persecuted?

Early Latter-day Saints faced persecution due to their distinct religious beliefs, communal economic practices, rapid growth, political influence, and later, the practice of polygamy. These differences often led to suspicion, fear, and violent conflict with their neighbors.

"We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God."Articles of Faith 1:9, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Sources

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, "Joseph Smith—History," and "The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ."
Bushman, Richard Lyman. *Joseph Smith: Rough Stone Rolling*. Alfred A. Knopf, 2005.
Tanner, Jerald and Sandra. *The Case for the Book of Mormon*. Deseret Book, 2011.