Identify and State the Historical Significance of the Following

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The Answer is The Mormons, officially known as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), are a religious group that originated in the United States during the early 19th century. The historical significance of the Mormons can be identified in several key areas:

**Founding and Persecution:**
The LDS Church was founded by Joseph Smith in 1830 in upstate New York. Smith claimed to have been visited by God the Father and Jesus Christ and later by an angel named Moroni, who directed him to a set of golden plates that he translated into the Book of Mormon. The church faced intense persecution due to its unorthodox practices, such as polygamy, and its members' tendency to vote as a bloc, which threatened local political balances.

**Migration and Settlement:**
Due to ongoing persecution, the Mormons undertook a significant migration westward, led by Brigham Young after the death of Joseph Smith, who was murdered by a mob in 1844. This migration culminated in the establishment of Salt Lake City in the Utah Territory in 1847, where the Mormons could practice their religion freely. The settlement of the Utah Territory by the Mormons was a significant event in the westward expansion of the United States.

**Economic and Social Contributions:**
The Mormons were instrumental in the development of the American West. They established efficient agricultural practices, built cities, and engaged in trade. Their practice of irrigation and communal living helped to make the arid Utah region productive. They also constructed the Salt Lake Temple, which remains a central symbol of the faith.

**Polygamy and Legal Conflicts:**
One of the most controversial aspects of early Mormonism was the practice of polygamy, which led to significant legal conflicts with the United States government. The church officially renounced polygamy in 1890, which was a key step toward Utah's acceptance as a state in 1896.

**Modern Influence:**
Today, the LDS Church is a global religion with millions of members worldwide. It has a strong organizational structure and is known for its emphasis on family, community service, missionary work, and humanitarian aid. The church's welfare system and disaster relief efforts are widely respected.

**Cultural Impact:**
Mormons have had a significant cultural impact, including contributions to music, literature, business, and politics. Prominent Mormons have served in various public offices, including Mitt Romney, who was the Republican nominee for President of the United States in 2012.

In summary, the historical significance of the Mormons lies in their founding under unique religious circumstances, their role in the westward expansion of the United States, their social and economic contributions, their complex relationship with American law and society, and their ongoing influence in various spheres of life both in the United States and around the world.

Identify and State the Historical Significance of the Following

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