Heber J. Grant

Heber J. Grant was the seventh President of the LDS Church, serving from 1918 to 1945—the longest presidency to that date. Born in Salt Lake City as the son of Jedediah M. Grant (a counselor to Brigham Young), he was raised by his widowed mother in modest circumstances. Through determination and business acumen, he became a successful banker, insurance executive, and businessman before being called as an apostle at age 25.

Grant was a polygamist with three wives, though two died before he became president. He served a mission to Japan and was instrumental in opening that country to Mormon missionary work. His presidency spanned World War I, the Great Depression, and World War II.

Grant oversaw the church’s transition into the 20th century, implementing the church welfare program during the Depression (1936) to provide for members without government assistance. He strongly supported Prohibition and opposed the New Deal. He standardized church curricula and organization, introduced the missionary discussions, and built temples in Arizona, Hawaii, and Idaho.

Known for his tireless work ethic and business sense, Grant transformed the church into a more financially stable and centrally administered organization. His 27-year presidency established patterns of institutional management that continue today.