Mormons – Introduction

NAMEINTRODUCTION
MORMONS They are religious and cultural group related to Mormonism. The branch refers to church of Latter-Day-Saints started by Joseph Smith in upstate New York during the 1820’s. After Smith’s death in 1844 the movement split into several groups following different leaders; the majority followed Brigham Young, while smaller groups followed Joseph Smith III , Sidney Rigdon, and James Strang and other leaders. Mormons have developed a strong sense of community that stems from their doctrine and history. One of the central doctrinal issues that defined Mormonism in the 19th century was the practice of plural marriage ( a form of religious polygamy) . Many Mormons who had followed Brigham Young to the Utah Territory openly practiced polygamy. Mormons dedicate significant time and resources to serving in their churches.