What religious group was founded by Joseph Smith, known for their belief in polygamy?

Joseph Smith founded the religious group known as the Mormons, officially called the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This group is particularly notable for its early teachings and practices regarding polygamy, or plural marriage, which was a significant aspect of their community and social structure during the 19th century. Smith claimed to have received revelations from God that included the practice of polygamy, which he and some of his followers practiced as a principle of their faith.

The Mormons emerged in the early 1830s, amidst the Second Great Awakening, and their beliefs and practices were often at odds with those of mainstream society, leading to significant persecution and social tension. Understanding the Mormons' distinctive beliefs, including the practice of polygamy, helps contextualize their historical experiences in the United States, particularly in relation to issues of religious freedom and cultural conflict during that era.