In 1883, author Josiah Quincy wrote:

It is by no means improbable that some future textbook, for the use of generations yet unborn, will contain a question something like this: What historical American of the nineteenth century has exerted the most powerful influence upon the destinies of his countrymen? And it is by no means impossible that the answer to that interrogatory may be thus written: Joseph Smith, the Mormon Prophet. And the reply, absurd as it doubtless seems to most men now living, may be an obvious commonplace to their descendants.

Since that time, millions of people in the United States and throughout the world have come to know about Joseph Smith, Mormon prophet.  Even those who do no accept him as a prophet of God are often fascinated with his life, his accomplishments and his impact on the world.

Why is Joseph Smith important?

From the time of the First Vision in 1820 when he saw God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ, it was clear that God had a special work for Joseph Smith.  In his relatively short lifetime, he restored the Church of Jesus Christ to the earth, translated and published the Book of Mormon, and united a people that has now grown to include millions of Latter-day Saints from all around the world.

And yet perhaps the greatest legacy that Joseph Smith left was his powerful first-hand witness of the Savior Jesus Christ.  Above all else, Joseph Smith taught Mormons and non-Mormons alike that Jesus is our personal Savior, that He came to earth to live and die for us, and that He lives today!

How can I learn more about Joseph Smith?

The pages on this website include videos and articles about the life, teachings, death and legacy of Joseph Smith.  Mormon friends, family, co-workers or neighbors can also answer your questions–don’t hesitate to ask.  Additionally, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a wealth of information about Joseph Smith and his life through their official websites:

• LDS.org
• Mormon.org
• JosephSmith.net

Finally, if you have additional questions that you can’t find answers to, please feel free to contact me.  I hope you enjoy this website and will share my same appreciation for Joseph Smith, a great man and an instrument in the hands of God.