Joseph Smith's Presidential Run of 1844: Reasons and Context

LDS Perspective

Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, ran for President of the United States in 1844 primarily to advocate for the protection of the civil and religious rights of Latter-day Saints. His candidacy was prompted by the severe persecution that he and his followers had faced in Missouri and Illinois. Having written to existing candidates for the presidency regarding their positions on the rights of religious minorities, and receiving unsatisfactory replies, Smith accepted the nomination from the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in February 1844. He believed that running for office was a necessary step to raise awareness of the plight faced by his community and to seek legislative remedies to their grievances (Source 1). Central to Joseph Smith's platform wa

Historical Perspective

Joseph Smith's candidacy for the presidency of the United States in 1844 was motivated by a combination of political ambition, religious conviction, and a desire for protection and recognition for the Latter-day Saints (Mormons). By the time Smith announced his candidacy, the Mormons had faced significant persecution and violence in Missouri and Illinois, and they sought means to secure their rights and safety. Smith felt that through a presidential campaign, he could address the injustices faced by his followers and advocate for religious freedom (Joseph Smith Papers, Documents Volume 14). In his platform, Smith proposed a variety of progressive policies, including a system of communal living based on the United Order, the abolition of slavery, and improvements in governance that reflect