The Book of Mormon

The Book of Mormon is divided into several books which tell the story of ancient American civilizations. According to Smith the text was translated from golden plates he discovered in 1823 which he claimed were inscribed with a history of the inhabitants of the Americas from around 600 B.C. to A.D. 421. The narrative includes accounts of two primary groups: the Nephites and the Lamanites who are said to be descendants of a Hebrew family that fled Jerusalem before its destruction. The book recounts their journeys wars religious teachings and the eventual appearance of Jesus Christ in the Americas after His resurrection. The book is structured like a historical record and is written in a style similar to the King James Bible. It emphasizes themes such as faith repentance and the teachings of Jesus Christ. Notably it includes the story of Christ''s visit to the Americas where He is said to have preached established His church and performed miracles.