This eight-part miniseries from the Joseph Smith Papers explores the history of the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith in 1844, focused on the historical events that led to the assassination of the two men and the aftermath of that tragic event.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
The Road to Carthage: A Joseph Smith Papers Podcast is an absolute treasure for anyone interested in Church history and the life of Joseph Smith. This podcast delves deep into the events leading up to the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, providing a concise and complete historical account of their lives and the impact they had on bringing the gospel of Christ back to earth. The podcast is filled with incredible research and documentation, presenting not just opinions but facts about this pivotal moment in history.
One of the best aspects of The Road to Carthage podcast is its commitment to providing accurate historical information. The hosts, along with a team of scholars and researchers, have clearly invested a great deal of time and effort into meticulously researching every aspect of Joseph Smith's life and the events surrounding his death. This dedication to factual accuracy shines through in each episode, making it a reliable source for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of this period.
Furthermore, the podcast does an excellent job depicting not only the actions of Joseph Smith and his followers but also those who were against him. It highlights how newspapers at that time were provoking hatred towards the saints for no reason other than religious difference, making connections to similar acts we see today in our land of supposed tolerance. By including these perspectives, The Road to Carthage provides a well-rounded view of the events and helps listeners grasp the complex dynamics at play during this tumultuous period.
While it's challenging to find any significant flaws with this podcast, one minor criticism could be its occasional lack of personal insight or interpretation. While it excels at presenting facts and historical context, it may benefit from occasionally offering more analysis or commentary on some aspects. However, this is merely a small nitpick as this podcast primarily aims to present facts rather than provide personal opinions.
In conclusion, The Road to Carthage: A Joseph Smith Papers Podcast is an outstanding resource for anyone interested in delving deeper into Church history and the life of Joseph Smith. Its commitment to factual accuracy and comprehensive research make it a reliable source of information on this important period. The podcast's ability to present a balanced view of both sides involved in the events surrounding Joseph Smith's martyrdom adds depth and complexity to the narrative. Overall, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of early Mormon history.
In this episode, President Dallin H. Oaks recounts his experiences and discoveries researching the legal history of the events surrounding the martyrdom. President Oaks and Richard E. Turley Jr. also reflect on the historical and spiritual legacy of Joseph Smith. Guests: President Dallin H. Oaks, Richard E. Turley Jr.
In this episode, President M. Russell Ballard discusses the historic and spiritual legacy of Joseph and Hyrum Smith from his perspective as an Apostle in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and as a descendant of Hyrum. Guests: President M. Russell Ballard
This episode explores the history of Carthage Jail, how the building became a historic site and how its meaning has changed to visitors over time. The episode also describes ongoing efforts to preserve and share Joseph Smith's history. Guests: Emily Utt, Hillary Kirkham, Matt Grow, Elder Kyle S. McKay
This episode details the return of Joseph and Hyrum Smith's bodies to Nauvoo, the mourning of the Saints and their efforts to memorialize their fallen leaders, questions of succession in church leadership, and the settling of Joseph Smith's estate. Guests: Sharalyn Howcroft, Jenny Reeder, Jeffrey Mahas, Matt Grow, Elizabeth Kuehn, Richard E. Turley Jr., Hillary Kirkham.
This episode describes the legal proceedings in Carthage, Illinois, on June 25, 1844, and the mob's attack on Carthage Jail and murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith two days later. Guests: David Grua, Richard E. Turley Jr., Alex Smith, Brett Dowdle, Elizabeth Kuehn
This episode explains the origins of dissent in Nauvoo, rising tensions in the region following the Nauvoo City Council's suppression of the Nauvoo Expositor, and the events that led Joseph and Hyrum Smith to travel to Carthage, Illinois. Guests: David Grua, Alex Smith, Richard E. Turley Jr., Brett Dowdle, Elizabeth Kuehn, Matthew Godfrey, Brent Rogers, Jenny Reeder
This episode reveals the various avenues to protection that church and civic leaders in Nauvoo explored, including Joseph Smith's presidential campaign and the Saints' petitions to the United States Congress. The episode also considers Joseph Smith's religious teachings in 1844. Guests: Christian Heimburger, Jessica Nelson, Matt Grow, Adam Petty, Chase Kirkham
This episode reveals how the violence Latter-day Saints experienced in Missouri during the 1830s informed the way they designed safeguards for their rights and lives in Illinois, and how the implementation of those safeguards led to the formation of the Anti-Mormon Party. Guests: Matthew Godfrey, Alex Smith, Jeffrey Mahas, Brent Rogers, Elizabeth Kuehn, Christian Heimburger, Adam Petty
This introductory episode previews the limited-series podcast on the history of the 1844 assassination of Joseph and Hyrum Smith in Carthage, Illinois.