Noble American Lives: Biographies of America's Religious Thinkers and Believers

In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host William H. Benson delves into the final days of Joseph Smith, the prophet and founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Detailing political and economic strife, personal betrayals, and the dramatic confrontations that led to his eventual assassination inside Carthage Jail, this episode offers an in-depth narrative of the conflicts that marked the end of Joseph Smith's life. A vivid recount of historical events, this episode focuses on the tensions within the Mormon community, Smith's clashes with detractors, and the ultimate sacrifice he made.

(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (01:19) Overview of Previous Books and Episodes (04:12) Introduction to Joseph Smith's Biography (05:01) Conflict and Controversy in Nauvoo (16:43) The Final Days of Joseph Smith (20:36) The Martyrdom of Joseph Smith (31:15) Aftermath and Legacy

In episode 111 of the Noble American Lives Podcast, William H. Benson continues to delve into the life of Joseph Smith, founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This episode explores Smith's complex religious and political ambitions, his controversial practice of polygamy, and his fraught interpersonal relationships, particularly with his wife, Emma. Benson recounts Smith's theological innovations, such as the concept of celestial marriage, and his eventual conflict with former close associates like John C. Bennett. Smith's attempts to merge spiritual and temporal governance and his candidacy for the U.S. presidency are also examined, highlighting the widespread suspicion and opposition he faced, leading up to his untimely demise.

(00:00) Introduction to the Noble American Lives Podcast (00:18) Overview of the Parallel Lives Series (01:26) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:41) Thomas Payne and George Whitfield (03:55) Ralph Waldo Emerson and Joseph Smith (05:09) Joseph Smith's Vision and Controversies (07:58) Polygamy and Its Impact (20:14) Conflicts and Scandals (28:49) Joseph Smith's Final Years

In this episode, William H. Benson continues his biography of Joseph Smith, founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The story covers Smith's leadership in Nauvoo, the city's July 4th celebration, and the growing influence of the Mormon community. Joseph's political power in Illinois and the impact of the Mormon vote are explored, along with the formation and strength of the Nauvoo Legion. The episode details the attempted assassination of Lilburn Boggs, the resulting legal troubles for Smith and Porter Rockwell, and Smith's dramatic legal battles. Listeners hear about Joseph's triumphant return to Nauvoo, his public speeches, and his assertion of local authority. The narrative also covers Smith's financial struggles and bankruptcy. Benson describes the secretive Council of 50 and Joseph's vision of a political "Kingdom of God." The episode concludes with Smith's 1844 presidential campaign, the challenges faced, and his enduring faith in his followers. This installment offers a vivid look at Joseph Smith's ambitions, trials, and legacy. (00:00) - Introduction to the podcast and episode. (01:06) - About the books and newsletter. (02:00) - Recap of previous episodes and thinkers. (04:20) - Joseph Smith's July 4th celebration in Nauvoo. (05:25) - Joseph's political influence in Illinois. (07:28) - The rise and power of the Nauvoo Legion. (09:03) - Attempted assassination of Lilburn Boggs. (12:25) - Joseph Smith's legal battles and public image. (15:00) - Joseph's return to Nauvoo and public speech. (19:34) - Joseph and leaders declare bankruptcy. (24:24) - Formation of the Council of 50 and "Kingdom of God." (28:30) - Joseph Smith's 1844 presidential campaign. (29:20) - Campaign challenges and public opposition. (30:46) - Joseph's closing remarks and faith in the people.

In episode 109 of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host William H. Benson continues his series on American religious thinkers and believers with a focused biography on Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. This episode delves into Smith's efforts to build a theocracy in Nauvoo, Illinois between 1839 and 1844. Highlights include his endeavors to construct a temple, his disagreements with federal leadership in Washington D.C., his relationship with Dr. John C. Bennett, the introduction of new religious ceremonies, and the establishment of the Nauvoo Legion and University. The episode also touches on personal tragedies in Smith's life and his interactions with his wife, Emma.

(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (01:20) Overview of Previous Books (03:50) Introduction to Joseph Smith's Biography (05:03) Joseph Smith's Early Years in Illinois (07:39) Challenges and Growth in Nauvoo (10:11) Missionary Work and Expansion (12:39) Political Struggles and Advocacy (17:53) John C. Bennett's Influence (22:55) Construction of the Nauvoo Temple (26:03) Masonic Influences and Rituals (28:45) Life in the Mansion House

In this episode of Noble American Lives, host William H. Benson continues to explore the life of Joseph Smith, founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The episode delves into the events surrounding the dedication of the Kirtland Temple, the speculative land frenzy, and the creation of the Kirtland Safety Society Bank. As Smith's financial woes worsen, his ventures take a deep dive, leading to lawsuits and failed missions. The narrative also details the internal dissent within the church in Kirtland and the subsequent migration to Far West, Missouri. Against the backdrop of rising tensions with local Missourians, Smith's attempts to stabilize his followers culminate in the Missouri Mormon War.

(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (01:22) Overview of Previous Books (04:18) Introduction to Joseph Smith (05:07) The Kirtland Temple Dedication (06:57) Financial Troubles and the Kirtland Safety Society (07:47) Mission to Salem and Continued Financial Struggles (09:00) Banking Fiasco and Legal Issues (13:31) Internal Church Conflicts (15:40) Missionary Efforts and Expansion (20:01) Relocation to Missouri (21:16) Establishing Far West and Adam-ondi-Ahman (24:59) Conflict and the Missouri Mormon War

In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host William H. Benson delves into the life of Joseph Smith, the prophet and founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The discussion covers Smith's early collaborations with Sidney Rigdon, the establishment of religious communities in Kirtland, Ohio, and Zion, Missouri, as well as significant events and revelations that shaped the LDS Church. Key events include the arrival of Rigdon in New York, the establishment of a communistic society, Joseph's visions and revelations such as the Word of Wisdom, and the persecution faced by the Saints in Missouri. The episode also highlights personal trials faced by Joseph Smith and his family, including the loss of children and the growing tensions between church members and outsiders.

(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (00:18) Overview of the Books and Subscription Information (01:24) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:41) Thomas Payne and George Whitfield (04:03) Ralph Waldo Emerson and Joseph Smith (05:05) Joseph Smith's Biography: Early Years (06:48) Sidney Rigdon's Influence and Communistic Society (11:15) Challenges and Revelations in Kirtland (15:42) Expansion to Missouri and Zion (27:45) Conflict and Persecution in Missouri

In episode 104 of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host William H. Benson continues reading from his biography on Joseph Smith, the prophet and founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. This episode delves into the intricate history and themes of the Book of Mormon, detailing the narratives of Nephi, the people of Zarahemla, and the Jaredites among others. Benson highlights the challenges and criticisms faced by Joseph Smith following the publication of the Book of Mormon. The episode also covers the foundation of the Church of Christ with key figures and the initial organizational structure, along with Joseph Smith's personal endeavors and Emma Smith's struggles and eventual compliance to support the church's mission. The overarching narrative emphasizes Joseph Smith's multifaceted abilities and the lasting impact of his religious movement.

(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (00:19) Overview of the Books and Themes (01:20) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:35) Thomas Payne and George Whitfield (03:52) Ralph Waldo Emerson and Joseph Smith (04:52) Joseph Smith's Biography (17:06) The Book of Mormon's Origins and Content (22:23) Establishing the Church of Christ (28:34) Emma Smith's Struggles and Revelations

In Episode 103 of the Noble American Lives Podcast, William H. Benson continues reading from his book, focusing on Joseph Smith, the prophet and founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The episode details critical events in Joseph Smith's life, including the death of his first child, the recovery and loss of sacred pages, and his subsequent divine revelations. It describes the translation process of the Book of Mormon through the use of the seer stone and the revelations given to Joseph, such as those included in the Doctrines and Covenants. Additionally, the episode recounts significant events like the arrival of Oliver Cowdery, the selection of witnesses to the golden plates, and the publication challenges of the Book of Mormon. Finally, listeners are provided with an in-depth look at the historical and theological context surrounding the Book of Mormon's contents. (00:00) Introduction to the Noble American Lives Podcast (00:49) Overview of the Books and Subscription Information (01:20) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:34) Thomas Payne and George Whitfield (03:48) Ralph Waldo Emerson and Joseph Smith (04:49) Joseph Smith's Early Life and Revelations (07:35) Translation of the Book of Mormon (12:50) Witnesses and Publication of the Book of Mormon (19:26) Structure and Content of the Book of Mormon (24:59) Lehi's Journey and the Nephites and Lamanites

In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, hosted by William H. Benson, the focus is on Joseph Smith, the prophet and founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The episode covers various aspects of Smith's life, beginning from his discovery of the seer stone in 1822 at the age of 16, through his involvement with treasure hunting in Western New York. It includes details about his visions, particularly the visit from the angel Moroni who revealed the existence of golden plates containing ancient records. The narrative also delves into family dynamics, recurrent financial struggles, and Joseph's marriage to Emma Hale. The episode concludes with the early stages of translating the golden plates with Martin Harris' assistance, which leads to critical moments in the formation of the Book of Mormon.

(00:00) Introduction to the Noble American Lives Podcast (00:17) Overview of the Books and Subscription Information (01:19) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:31) Thomas Payne and George Whitfield (03:46) Ralph Waldo Emerson and Joseph Smith (04:46) Joseph Smith's Early Life and Visions (13:20) Challenges and Family Struggles (23:30) Joseph Smith's Marriage and Move to Harmony (27:36) Translating the Golden Plates