Wilford Woodruff

Wilford Woodruff (March 1, 1807 – September 2, 1898) was an American religious figure and the fourth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), serving from 1889 until his death. Born in Connecticut, Woodruff joined the LDS Church in 1836 and became known for his tireless missionary work across North America and Europe. He was a prolific diarist, maintaining detailed records of Church activities and his personal spiritual experiences, making him an invaluable historical source for understanding 19th-century Mormonism. As an apostle and later as president, Woodruff played a central role in the Church's survival and expansion during periods of persecution and westward migration. He is particularly remembered for issuing the 1890 Manifesto, which discontinued the LDS practice of polygamy, a decision that was crucial to the Church's legitimacy and eventual integration into mainstream American religious life. Woodruff's leadership helped transition the LDS Church from a persecuted sect into an established religious institution. His remarkable longevity—living 91 years during a tumultuous era—and his consistent dedication to his faith made him a central figure in American religious history and a revered leader within the LDS community.