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Episode 3 of Beginnings explores the "Dartmouth connection" in early Mormon history, examining how the intellectual environment around Dartmouth College may have influenced Mormon theology through Hyrum Smith's education. The hosts investigate Joseph Smith Jr.'s educational background—more substantial than often portrayed—and Hyrum's immersion in Dartmouth's theological environment. They discuss five building blocks of Mormonism: American indigenous mythology, Protestant Christianity, Greek mythology, Islamic beliefs, and Masonic rituals—all potentially transmitted through Hyrum's Dartmouth experience.

Sources

• Essay: Dartmouth Arminianism and its Influence on Hyrum Smith and the Smith Family
• Video: Joseph Smith's Secret Education_Mormonism Live_Ep 111
• Video: Joseph Smith's Secret Education_Mormon Stories_1728
• Essay: Reassessing Joseph Smith's Formal Education_William Davis_Dialogue
• Essay: Joseph Smith's Education and Intellect_Brian C Hales_Intellect

AI Prompt
Explore Joseph Smith's educational environment through the "Dartmouth Connection." Examine how Hyrum Smith's Dartmouth education and proximity to intellectual centers influenced early Mormon theology. Discuss the five building blocks of Mormonism: American Indigenous mythology, Protestant Christianity, Greek mythology, Islamic beliefs, and Masonic rituals. Analyze how Joseph's proximity to Dartmouth shaped Joseph and Mormonism's doctrinal development. Audience is believing and doubting Mormons.

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1. Truth | 2. Beginnings | 3. First Vision | 4. Priesthood | 5. The Gold Plates | 6. The BoM | 7. The BoA | 8. Polygamy | 9. Changes | 10. Challenges | ...