Mormonism was the result of some guys from New York who read the Old Testament and said let’s bring this back! Later on when there was no other place to flee to and the authorities were putting the pressure on they had to tone it down a bit. At least on the surface.

Snake oil

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=aLEhh_XpJ-0

Mormonism is not centered on Christ and His teachings but temple ordinances for the living and dead, with emphasis on the dead and the next life - probably the result of Joseph's fascination with ancient Egypt. The price for Temple admission to do those ordinances is tithing, the biggest generator of income for the Mormon church. There's a reason for the recent surge in temple building.

Christ's life and teachings as recorded in the New Testament were not centered on temple work for the living or dead. His message was uplifting, emphasizing love and kindness, and not "go to the temple!"

It’s more Old Testament than New Testament. It’s follow the prophet and the temple is the big focal point.

The Smith's lost their home in Vermont, then lost their home in New York. Joseph grew up in this environment seeing how hard it was, at least for his family, to be successful in the world.

He didn't want to end up like his father: working himself to death, and still unable to make mortgage payments.

But he knew that some held the belief that money was buried in various places in upper New York state.

He cashed in on that, pretending to have the power to locate buried treasure. Some believed him.

Joseph never dug up anything valuable, but pretended to have found 'plates', and some believed him.

Those who believe the story are called Mormons.