The DNA profile of Joseph Smith
Are you related to the founder of the religion?
Discover a possible family connection with the famous founder of religion and also compare yourself with many other famous people!
The DNA of a Religion Founder
Joseph Smith Jr, born December 23, 1805 in Sharon, Vermont, was the founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, also known as the Mormon Church. In his biography, Smith offers insight into his humble beginnings, his search for spiritual truth, and the controversial events that eventually led to the birth of a new religious movement.
Smith's roots can be traced back to England. His paternal line, represented by progenitor Robert Smith, immigrated to America from England in the 17th century and eventually settled in Massachusetts. Smith's maternal line, represented by Mary Duty, has roots in Scotland and England.
Thanks to modern genetics, we know more about Smith's paternal lineage. By analyzing his Y chromosome, which is passed from father to son, it was determined that he belongs to haplogroup R1b. This haplogroup is very common in Western Europe today, especially in areas that were settled by the Celts.
In his teenage years, Smith began to become deeply involved in religion. In the midst of the strong religious movement known as the Second Great Revival, Smith felt increasingly confused by the different religious views. According to his own account, this inner turmoil led to a mystical experience in the spring of 1820 that became known as the "First Vision." He may have encountered God personally and recognized a direct revelation truth.
Three years after his First Vision, Smith is said to have been visited by an angel named Moroni, who after a few years led him to golden plates on which was inscribed an ancient Christian history of America. Smith is said to have translated these plates into a new scripture, the Book of Mormon, which was published in 1830. That same year, Smith founded The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
A few years before his death, Smith instituted a practice called sealing, which spiritually bonded him to women he had made his wives. Smith's polygamy sparked controversy and led to his arrest and later murder by a mob in 1844.
After Smith's death, Brigham Young led Smith's followers west and eventually founded what is now Salt Lake City, Utah. Smith is revered today as a prophet by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Despite the controversies surrounding his life and teachings, his spiritual legacy remains a driving force in a worldwide religious movement that now numbers more than 16 million members.
In addition to his obvious religious significance, Joseph Smith has also played an important role in American history. His founding of a new Christian denomination, his role as mayor of Nauvoo, Illinois, and his presidential candidacy shortly before his death made him an important political figure in 19th century America.
Through the interplay of Smith's genetic and spiritual heritage, his life story also offers unique insights into the heritage, culture, and social fabric of early America, particularly the religious movements of the 19th century. The story of Joseph Smith remains an important, if controversial, component of American religious history and an enduring social and spiritual force in the world today.
Joseph Smith belonged to haplogroup R-M343 (subgroup R-M222) in the paternal line.
Unravelling Family Mystique: Discovering Shared Ancestry with Joseph Smith Through iGENEA
A fascination with family folklore, an easy-to-use iGENEA DNA test kit, and a fascination discovery! My journey to tracing my lineage, and receiving confirmation that I share common ancestors with Latter Day Saints Movement founder, Joseph Smith (R. McFadden)
Our story began when I decided to have my DNA tested to trace my genealogy through iGENEA. Over the years, I had heard tales passed down through generations that we were possibly related to Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saints Movement. Intrigued, I moved on with iGENEA, known for delivering considerable and precise results. The detailed instructions supplied with the kit made it simple to collect a cheek swab and send it off.
After a period of expectant waiting, my results were emailed to me with an accompanying report which remarkably confirmed our family lore to be true. I found I shared common ancestors with Joseph Smith. Through generations, different paths had been followed, but the root of the DNA remained the same. The knowledge was not just intriguing but gave me an increased appreciation for our family history.
The test results were also mapped out quite pictorially, exhibiting a detailed migration map of my ancestors, which was both fascinating and educational. My experience with iGENEA was only made better by their exceptionally supportive and professional customer service. Each of my queries, even before undergoing the DNA test, was received and answered with immense patience and detail.
Beyond just denoting that we shared common ancestors with Joseph Smith, iGENEA also provided contact details for matches who had given their consent. This encouraged an enriching platform for discourse with distant relatives, going way above my initial expectations. As though embarking on a thrilling treasure hunt filled with meaningful finds, my experience with iGENEA, added much richness to my personal family narrative, bringing me closer to understanding my roots.
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Questions and answers about the DNA test
How long does a DNA origin analysis take?
After we have received the samples it normally takes 6 weeks for the fist results. Depending on the chosen test the result is thus already fully ready or further analysis are done.
How can I order a DNA origin analysis for someone else?
If you order and pay for a test set for somebody else online, the address of the other person under “Comments”. We will then send the collection kit to the address of this person. You can also place your order by phone or e-mail.
This is how the DNA origin analysis works
A Mucus Sample suffices to get a sample of your DNA. Taking the sample is simple and painless and can be done at home. Send the samples with the envelop included in the sampling kit.
at home, simple and painless
with the enclosed envelope
online after approx. 6-8 weeks