“It has been the design of Jehovah, from the commencement of the World, and is his purpose now, to regulate the affairs of the World in his own time; to stand as head of the universe and take the reins of government into his own hand. When that is done judgement will be administered in righteousness: anarchy and confusion will be destroyed, and ‘nations will learn war no more.’” — Joseph Smith¹

The Council of Fifty was an organization established by Joseph Smith in March 1844 with the purpose of laying the foundation for the political Kingdom of God on earth.² Its members, including both Latter-day Saints and a few non-members, were tasked with developing a theocratic democracy.^3,4 In Joseph’s words, it would be a “Theodemocracy, where God and the people hold the power to conduct the affairs of men in righteousness.”⁵ The council promoted religious freedom and tolerance, believing all men had equal rights regardless of their religion.^3,5 The Council of Fifty did not hold any political power.³ It was often referred to as the “Kingdom of God,” the “Council of the Kingdom,” the “Kingdom,” or the “Council.”²

1. History, 1838–1856, volume C-1 Addenda, 34, josephsmithpapers.org

2. ”Council of Fifty,” josephsmithpapers.org

3. Saints, Volume 1, Chapter 43, 528-529

4. Saints, Volume 1, Chapter 42, 517-518

5. “The Council of Fifty in Nauvoo, Illinois,” josephsmithpapers.org