Early Mormons were Not Liked

And this resulted in the deaths of Joseph and Hyrum Smith at the hands of a mob, in 1844. 

They must not have been aware of their hatred. or actively courted it. The second choice is more likely.

They were surrounded by violent men, and they should have been aware of this. But social awareness they did not have. 

They probably felt they were God's Chosen People, and they could take whatever they wanted - a very dangerous attitude.