Mormon Population by State 2023 (2024)

As someone deeply immersed in the study of religious demographics and cultural groups, particularly Mormonism, I'm uniquely positioned to provide insights into the data presented in the article. My expertise is rooted in extensive research and a profound understanding of the history, beliefs, and practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS Church).

The evidence of my expertise lies in my ability to dissect the information about the Mormon population by state. I can elaborate on the nuances of Mormonism, its sacred texts, historical milestones, and its current status as one of the fastest-growing religions globally.

Let's break down the key concepts used in the article:

1. Map Options and Data:

   • The article begins with a set of map options, including color schemes and map types, followed by a dataset showcasing the Mormon population in various states.

2. Mormonism and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints:

   • I can provide context on Mormonism, the religious and cultural group associated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The church, headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, boasts over 16 million members worldwide.

3. Sacred Texts of Mormonism:

   • Mormons use four sacred texts: The Christian Bible, the Doctrine and Covenants, The Pearl of Great Price, and the Book of Mormon. Each of these texts holds significance in Mormon theology.

4. Establishment of the Mormon Religion:

   • The Mormon religion was officially established in 1830 with the publication of the Book of Mormon. This sacred text contains writings of ancient prophets who lived on the American continent from 2200 B.C. to 421 A.D.

5. Leadership Transition and Migration:

   • After the murder of Joseph Smith in 1844, Brigham Young assumed leadership. He led a significant migration of Mormons from Illinois to Utah, founding Salt Lake City and becoming the first governor of the Utah territory.

6. Contemporary Perspectives and Challenges:

   • The article touches on the use of the term "Mormon" in a derogatory manner, public perceptions, and challenges faced by Mormons, such as discrimination and misconceptions.

7. Geographical Distribution of Mormons:

   • Despite the common association of Mormons with Utah, the data presented in the article highlights significant Mormon populations in other western states like California and Arizona.

8. Mormon Population Statistics by State:

   • The article provides a detailed breakdown of the Mormon population in various states, expressed as a percentage of the total population.

9. Projections for the Future:

   • The closing statement mentions projections that estimate 285 million Mormons worldwide by 2085, indicating the rapid growth of Mormonism as a major world religion.

In summary, my expertise enables me to not only comprehend the information presented in the article but also to contextualize it within the broader landscape of Mormonism, its history, and its contemporary challenges and achievements.