Joseph Smith's Gold Plates

In "The Gold Plates," historian Richard Lyman Bushman explores the origins and cultural significance of the metal plates linked to Joseph Smith's claims of divine revelation in the early 19th century. After their discovery in 1823, the plates sparked intense debate and fascination, inspiring both skepticism and belief, as critics labeled Smith a fraud while supporters claimed to witness the plates. Bushman delves into how these artifacts have been perceived by various groups over the last two centuries, examining their enduring impact on Mormon history and contemporary society.