Who is the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints?

The founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is Joseph Smith. He established the church in the early 19th century after claiming to have received divine revelations. Smith published the Book of Mormon in 1830, which he regarded as a continuation of biblical scripture. His revelations and teachings laid the foundational doctrines and practices that define the faith today.

Brigham Young, although a significant leader in the church and instrumental in its expansion, succeeded Smith after his death. John Smith is not a recognized figure in the founding of the church, and David Whitmer was an early member and one of the witnesses of the Book of Mormon but did not found the church. Thus, recognizing Joseph Smith as the founder emphasizes his pivotal role in the origins of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.