USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -President Polk added a vast area to the United States, but its acquisition precipitated a bitter quarrel between the North and the South over expansion of slavery. Polk, leaving office with his health undermined from hard work, died in June 1849. Learn more about James K. Polk’s spouse, Sarah Childress Polk.

Detailed explanation-2: -An ambitious politician with his gifted wife by his side, President Polk tirelessly pursued his goals. Texas joined the country as the 28th state during his first year in office. Tense negotiations with Great Britain concluded with American annexation of the Oregon Territory south of the 49th Parallel.

Detailed explanation-3: -Polk gained the Oregon Territory through successful negotiations with the British and wanted to do the same with California and New Mexico.

Detailed explanation-4: -After handing over the reins of government to his successor, Zachary Taylor, the Whig candidate whom he had correctly suspected of planning to use his Mexican War heroism to seek the presidency, Polk embarked on an extensive tour of the southern states.