A lot of people do not know that Joseph Smith tried to run for President of the United States. Do you think it was meant as a 'pattern' we were to follow or was he trying to do the impossible? Was it something he needed to 'fulfill' or was it a personal desire to lead? I often wonder if he won, what would have happened?
In addition to the above comments and questions, what is your view?
He was also the first U.S. Presidential candidate assassinated during a campaign.
I think he thought on becoming US President to help the Saints...they were so persecuted that he thought he could help to change that, I don't know. This is only my opinion. I think his brother Hyrum was involved in the campaign too.
HISTORICAL NOTES: In Joseph's political platform he proposed to pardon all convicts save for those that committed murder. As of 1844, the Twelve appointed 300 missionaries to campaign for Joseph Smith as President of the USA.