Did Joseph Smith Create a Council of 50 to Overthrow the US Government with the Help of Native Americans?

The Controversy Surrounding Joseph Smith

Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), is a controversial figure in American religious history. While some defenders of Smith continue to argue in his favor, many historical documents and testimonies from early Mormons reveal nefarious activities that contradict claims of his innocence.

The Origins and Purpose of the Council of 50

One of the most prominent controversies surrounding Joseph Smith is the alleged creation of a council of 50, purportedly aimed at overthrowing the US government. This notion, however, has been largely debunked. Recent historians and scholars have examined the records and have found no credible evidence supporting the idea that Smith intended to overthrow the government.

Historical Context: Robert D. Smith's Statements

Robert D. Smith, an historian of the LDS Church, notes that Joseph Smith's Council of 50 had a clear purpose. According to the Notes of the April 11, 1844, meeting, Smith stated, "God cannot save or damn a man only on the principle that every man acts, chooses, and worships for himself hence the importance of thrusting from us every spirit of bigotry and intolerance towards a man's religious sentiments..."

Non-Violent Change and Religious Sentiments

Smith's vision for the Council of 50 was rooted in the promotion of non-violent change and the protection of religious freedom. In his statement, he emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of all individuals, regardless of their religious beliefs.

Contradictions in the Claim

John Gee, a noted Mormon historian, points out that the idea of a council to overthrow the government is "ridiculous". He cites several events in Smith's life, such as the claims of adultery, which further cast doubt on the credibility of the conspiracy theory.

The Role of Native Americans

There is no substantial evidence that Joseph Smith sought to involve Native Americans in any anti-government activities. In fact, the Council of 50 was formed to address specific concerns related to the religious and political rights of the Latter-day Saints. The involvement of Native Americans in this context is a stretch of historical facts.

Domestic Politics and LDS Influence

Interestingly, while Joseph Smith initially planned for a covert Mormon presence in the government, this strategy changed after Romney's failed attempt. The strategy revised to ensure secrecy, leading to the election of Trump, who enjoyed solid support from evangelical voters. This highlights the complex relationship between Mormonism and US politics, both past and present.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The claim that Joseph Smith or the Council of 50 aimed to overthrow the US government is a significant departure from historical facts and should be viewed with skepticism. Rather than promoting conspiracy, it's more beneficial to focus on the real issues that motivated Smith and his followers. Understanding the true intentions and contributions of Joseph Smith to religious and political freedom provides a more accurate and nuanced view of this pivotal figure in American history.