Delve into the Carthage controversy with debates on Governor Thomas Ford's role, Joseph Smith's actions, and the authenticity of historical accounts. Explore controversial topics like Joseph's self-defense, John Taylor's pocket watch incident, Masonic distress signs, death mask accuracy, and the fate of Joseph's persecutors. Uncover intriguing details and speculations while reflecting on the intricacies of this historical event.
Governor Thomas Ford's involvement in Carthage deaths raises suspicions on his complicity in the murders of Joseph and Hyrum Smith.
Joseph Smith's self-defense actions against the Carthage mob question his martyrdom status within his religion.
Exploring Carthage controversies highlights the intricacies of historical interpretations and individual actions' impact on significant events.
Deep dives
Controversy One: Governor Thomas Ford's Role in the Martyrdom of Joseph and Hiram Smith
Governor Thomas Ford's involvement in the deaths of Joseph and Hiram Smith is questioned due to various actions that raised suspicions. His promise of protection led them to Carthage but failed to ensure their safety, eventually leaving them to the Carthage greys. Despite promising to take them to Nauvoo, he disbanded the militia, leaving them with sworn enemies. While there are circumstantial reasons that implicate his dubious role, there is also a possibility he was naive to the situation's severity.
Controversy Two: Joseph Smith Firing Back at the Mob in Carthage Jail
Joseph Smith firing back at the mob in self-defense after Hiram's murder raises questions about his martyrdom. Accounts confirm he fired back, hitting at least three men who fled the county and were never tried due to their involvement. Joseph's actions saved lives by preventing the mob from advancing into the room, creating enough doubt to keep them at bay. The evidence of his self-defense under life-threatening circumstances reshapes the narrative of the Carthage martyrdom.
Insights on the Controversies and Repercussions
The podcast delves into the uncertainties surrounding Governor Ford's actions and Joseph Smith's self-defense, offering nuanced perspectives on these historical events. These controversies shed light on the complexities of interpreting historical accounts and the impact of individual actions on significant events. By exploring these controversies with detailed insights and analysis, the episode deepens the understanding of the Carthage controversies and their lasting repercussions in shaping historical narratives.
The Size of the Pistol and Joseph's Actions
Joseph Smith's use of a small pistol in self-defense is discussed, emphasizing that firing back at the attackers did not disqualify him as a martyr. His actions aimed at protecting himself and others in the face of a mob intent on violence.
The Death Masks of Joseph and Hiram Smith
The accuracy of the death masks of Joseph and Hiram Smith is examined, considering factors like preservation techniques, provenance, and ice availability. While the masks may not be exact representations due to possible damage and decomposition challenges, they likely provide a fair likeness based on swift creation and preservation efforts.
Consider the following Carthage controversy questions: Was Governor Thomas Ford complicit in the murders of Joseph and Hyrum Smith? When Joseph fired back at the Carthage attackers, did he kill anyone? Also, does the fact that Joseph fired back at the mob somehow take away his status as a martyr for his religion? Did Joseph and his friends in Carthage Jail drink wine together? Also, were they not wearing their temple garments in jail? Were Joseph Smith’s last words a Masonic Cry for help? Are the death masks of Joseph and Hyrum Smith an accurate representation of them? Is John Taylor’s account of how his pocket watch was damaged during the attack accurate? Who actually wrote Doctrine & Covenants 135?
In this episode of Church History Matters we are tackling these and other “Carthage Controversies.”