Historical tools cannot prove or disprove if Joseph Smith had visions of heavenly beings. But they can shed light on the historical circumstances that Joseph said prompted him to seek God in prayer and led to the unfolding events of the Restoration. So what can we say about the historical backdrop to the First Vision? Available records indicate that the historical circumstances he reported surrounding his vision are authentic and bolster the credibility of his account. Links: www.pearlofgreatpricecentral.org/religious-excitement-near-palmyra-new-york-1816-1820/