- Joseph Smith claimed to have visions from God in 1820, leading him to found the Mormon religion.
- In 1823, he said an angel directed him to golden plates containing the Book of Mormon. He translated these plates into the book, published in 1830.
- He organized the Church of Christ in 1830, which was later called the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church).
- Smith published revelations and doctrines that became part of Mormon scripture and theology, including the concept of eternal progression.
- As the first Mormon prophet, he provided leadership and guidance that shaped the founding and growth