"[3] His presidency saw the church initiate a series of major projects, but it was also marred by the controversy over what became known as "Supreme Directional Control.

Joseph Smith III died on December 10, 1914, and Fred M. was ordained as the new Prophet-President the following spring on May 5, 1915.

In this way he both embraced and modernized his grandfather Joseph Smith Jr.'s vision to build a literal city of Zion in Independence, Missouri.

[7] He also presided during the difficult depression years which stalled or halted many of his projects, as the church faced issues of major financial debt.

The dispute led to a significant loss in membership due to the formation of splinter sects by those opposed to the policy.