Abstract

It is the purpose of this study to examine the political elements and issues in the United States from the latter part of 1838 to June 27, 1844, to determine their relationship to the death of Joseph Smith. This study includes an analysis of national, state and local issues and sentiment during that time, as they have a bearing upon the subject.
The primary period of study is the Illinois era of Latter-day Saint history which includes the events that transpired from the winter of 1838-39 to June 27, 1844. A less intensive study includes events after June 1844, to determine the political situation and the consequences involved in the "martyrdom" of Joseph Smith. Personal diaries, journals, newspaper articles and books published around this period, as well as those published at later dates, were studied. The issues and problems of the Kirtland and Missouri periods were considered when they directly related to the Illinois period.

Degree

College and Department

Religious Education; Church History and Doctrine

Rights

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