The Mormon Church -- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints -- is one of the world¿s fastest-growing religions. This book traces the group¿s tumultuous history, from its origins in New York State in 1830 to its present international stature. Introduces the faith¿s early leaders, Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, delves into Mormon rites and traditions, follows the trail of the Mormon pioneers into the West, evokes the rise of Salt Lake City, and describes the skirmishes and court battles between Mormons and their neighbors, other religions, and the U.S. gov¿t. Describes the church¿s institutional apparatus, the role of women in Mormon affairs, both before and after the Mormons¿ practice of polygamy, and how the church has addressed the challenges of modernity.