Joseph Smith and Mormons aka Jesus Christ and the Church of Later Day Saints A new American religion! - Started in New England by Joseph Smith (self proclaimed prophet) - Golden plates and new word of God - Smith picked up many followers and missionaries were sent out - Smith left with followers to Illinois - Many instances of hostilities between Mormons and locals (a mob would kill smith) - Mormons would split up: 1/3 went to Wisconsin and 2/3 went west

Mormons in Wisconsin/Michigan (lake Michigan) - James Strang declares himself king of Beaver Island; would end up being shot to death on the USS Michigan - Some followers disbanded and melded back in American society, some would go back to the main Mormon band settled in Utah, a few pockets of Strang followers are around today.

Mormons in Utah After Smith’s death Brigham Young decides to move his followers West - Looking for the promised land. - End up settling next to a giant salty lake Troubles with the U.S. government and nearby states would continue - War with Arizona - Polygamy (now not allowed in mainstream Mormonism) Today - Major force in America a. Fast growing religion b. Mitt Romney