Historical Dictionary of Mormonism

"Mormonism is the unofficial name for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which originated in the early 1800s. Mormons believe that the doctrines taught by Joseph Smith are the original gospel preached by Jesus Christ. They oppose abortion; homosexuality; premarital sex; pornography; gambling; tobacco; the consumption of alcohol, tea, and coffee; and the use of drugs. Despite its relatively young age, the Mormon Church continues to grow and today contains about 13 million members." "This third edition of the Historical Dictionary of Mormonism expands on the second edition, with a chronology, an introductory essay, a bibliography, and hundreds of cross-referenced dictionary entries on crucial people, organizations, churches, beliefs, and events. It clears up many of the misconceptions held about Mormonism and its members, making it an essential reference."--BOOK JACKET.