Study Notes on Texas Annexation and Oregon Country

Independent Texas and Annexation:
- Independent Texas is referred to as the "Lone Star Republic".
- Texas expressed a desire to become a part of the United States.
Divided American Opinion:
- Public sentiment in America was polarized regarding the annexation of Texas.
- Southerners:
  - Supported annexation.
  - Their motivation was the prospect of adding another slave state to the Union.
- Northerners:
  - Opposed annexation.
  - Concerns primarily stemmed from the desire to halt the spread of slavery into new territories.
- Concerns About War:
- A significant fear was that annexing Texas would provoke war with Mexico, which had not formally recognized Texas' independence.
Presidential Candidates of 1844:
- Candidates for the presidential election presented differing views on Texas annexation.
- Whig Party:
  - Candidate: Henry Clay
  - Stance: Opposed the annexation of Texas.
- Democratic Party:
  - Candidate: James K. Polk
  - Stance: Favored annexation of Texas.
  - Advocated for the concept of "Manifest Destiny," which supported American territorial expansion.
Outcome of the Election:
- Following Polk's election as President, Congress voted in favor of the annexation of Texas.
- Texas subsequently became the 28th state in the United States.

Geographical Context:
- Oregon Country refers to the vast area of land situated north of California and extending up to Alaska.
- Bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Rocky Mountains on its eastern edge.
Claims on Oregon Country:
- The land was a subject of claims by multiple nations and groups:
- The United States
- Spain
- Great Britain
- Russia
- Native American tribes
Implications of Claims:
- The international interest and claims in this territory highlight the geopolitical tensions and the competition for land during this period in American history.