Founded in 1830 by Joseph Smith, the establishment of the Mormon Church of Jesus Christ of Ladder Day Saints was one of the most significant results of America's religious revivals of the late 19th century. Established initially in Independence, Missouri, Paynesville, Ohio and Nauvoo, Illinois, the Mormons viewed their religion as an attempt to redefine American culture based on what their ntions of an ancient American society. However, rigid social organization, polygamy and secrecy surrounding Mormon religious rituals became the defining characteristics of Mormonism for those outside the Mormon community and the Church of Jesus Christ of Ladder Day Saints was opposed by many areas in which it tried to settle. In 1844, following the arrest and murder by a mob of Joseph Smith in Carthage, Illinois, the Mormons were brought by their new leader, Brigham Young, to what is now Salt Lake City, Utah.

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