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James Polk became president
The Democrats had a difficult time getting the 2/3 vote. But, on the 9th ballot, James K. Polk was nominated. President James Polk served as speaker of the house and was the Governor of Tennessee before he was elected president. As a supporter, Andrew Jackson assisted Polk in his election along with his running mate, George Dallas. Jackson thought Polk would be commited to "Manifest Destiny". Polk received 50% popular vote and won 170 out of 275 electoral votes. -
Texas Enters Union
This caused Mexico to forfit diplomatic relations with the U.S. Polk's attempts to buy California and Texas territory from Mexico for $25 million were turned down. Polk ordered 3,000 U.S. troops under order of Zachary Taylor into the Rio Grande which became the Mexican War -
Walker Tariff Act
This treaty reduced taxes on imported products which fulfilled a campaign promise popular in the South and among farmers. Following this act, he vetoed a bill asking to tax to improve rivers and harbors. -
Mexican War
This particular war was caused by fighting over Texas's land. Polk finally ended the Mexican War in 1848 by securing the Oregon Territory and purchasing 525,000 square miles of land. James Polk increased the size of the U.S. more than any other president with wars, including this one. Especially in this war, he was known as an extremely effective leader. -
Oregon Country Treaty
James K. Polk claimed Oregon Territory after a treaty with England. The treaty was ratified at the 49th parrallel stating the boundary between the United States and Canada. The people's positive attitude towards the idea convinced Polk to sign the treaty to increase peace between the countries. -
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
This treaty was signed at the end of the Mexican War to fix the border at the Rio Grande. James Polk agreed to pay Mexico $15 million for Nevada and California to be The United States's land. -
Cuba
Because of Polk being for slavery, and the fact that Cuba had slavery, he asked Spain to purchase Cuba. The Spanish government rejected his proposal. -
Polk Retires
By the time Polk retired, he had achieved and impacted many. Although his retirement was short, 103 days to be exact, it was quiet and relaxing after a busy term as president. Polk decided, even before hand, that he would only serve one term.
