How many wives did the first Mormon have?

40 wives In an essay posted without fanfare to its website in late October, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said for the first time that Joseph Smith, founder of the Mormon church, had as many as 40 wives. Some of those women were also married to friends of his. And one was only 14 when she became Smiths wife.

Did Joseph Smith have more than 1 wife?

The Mormon church has said for the first time that its founder Joseph Smith had up to 40 wives. The Mormon church banned polygamy in 1890 and now excommunicates anyone who practises it. The church has previously sought to portray Smith as loyal to his first wife Emma.

Why did the Mormon Church stop polygamy?

The U.S. Congress renewed its attack on polygamy by disincorporating the church and seizing its assets. In 1890, church president Wilford Woodruff, fearful that the continuation of the practice of plural marriage would lead to the destruction of all Mormon temples, announced an end to official support for polygamy.

Who has many wives in world?

Zionas family is recorded by the World Record Academy as setting the world record for the Biggest Family. At the time of the record entry in 2011, Ziona had 39 wives, 94 children, 14-daughters-in-laws and 33 grandchildren.