President James K. Polk
Definition
James K. Polk served as the 11th president of United States from 1845-1849. He is known for his policy of westward expansion which led to U.S acquiring California and much territory in Southwest after winning Mexican-American war.
Analogy
Imagine President James K. Polk as an ambitious real estate developer who wants to expand his property portfolio (the United States). He's willing to negotiate, bargain, and even fight (Mexican-American War) for more land (territories).
Related terms
Annexation of Texas: The act where U.S incorporated Republic of Texas into Union as State in 1845 during Polk's presidency.
Oregon Treaty: An agreement signed under Polk's administration between Britain and America that settled boundary dispute over Oregon territory.
Manifest Destiny: Again, this term is relevant as it was the belief that drove Polk's expansionist policies.
"President James K. Polk" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (1)
- Who opposed President James K. Polk's aggressive stance on annexing territory from Mexico and why?
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.