JOHN|JAMES POLK: Know More About The 11th US President

2010-04-26T22:57:00.000-07:00

Similar to John Fitzgerald Kennedy (May 29, 1917 – November 22), who was often referred to as "Jack," JAMES Polk was often referred to as "John."

An article written by Donald Graham for Newsweek on November 13, 2009 reviews a book written by Robert Merry regarding Graham notes that the book on Polk is a compelling story concerning the president. Merry describes the president as an odd individual nevertheless is brought to life in the book. Polk is depicted as straitlaced, guarded, sly and daring in his policies. Merry also points to the idea that President Polk is more notable than his historical reputation.

Polk is believed to be the least consequential president in USA history. In contrast to this statement, Polk fought the Mexican War where he settled claims to Texas and Oregon Territory and thus expanded the Union. The acquisition of California and the southwest was achievable by these settlements. The nationalized economic policy was also solidified because of these settlements. Biographer Merry notes that Polk accomplished the goal she had set out for himself and that these desired goals were accomplished for the most part as a consequence of his personal initiatives. Merry goes to explain that President Polk as a wise political leader.

According to Merry, JOHN POLK was a very unlikely president. After being defeated twice for the governor of Tennessee he was at last elected. He spent years after wards maneuvering for the Democratic vice presidential nomination. Then, after Martin Van Buren, the favored nominee chose the wrong side regarding Texas appropriation in 1884, Polk was catapulted into a deadlocked convention. As a result of Polk's perceptive political team's actions, he was the first dark-horse nominee ever voted president.

At the age of 11, young John Polk traveled to Tennessee together with his family to join his grandfather. They sold their homestead in pursuit of a fresh life in Tennessee. Polk attended school in Tennessee but returned to North Carolina where he became an honor student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He graduated in 1818 and returned to Tennessee. Upon his return to Tennessee John Polk studied law and established his own business. Polk married Sarah Childress in 1824. Historians note that Sarah had a kind manner about her plus she was a loving companion to Polk that helped extend his political career.