Annexation of Texas and James K. Polk

Annexation of Texas

• Texas Independence

  • Texas was an independent republic for nearly 10 years before annexation.

• James K. Polk

  • Elected President in 1844, he was previously the Speaker of the House and Governor of Tennessee.
  • Initially considered an unknown candidate against prominent Whig candidate, Henry Clay.
  • Won the presidency with 49.5% of the popular vote and an electoral college margin of 170-105.

• Political Goals

  • Polk effectively turned political ambitions into action.
  • Championed the concept of manifest destiny, believing it was the United States' destiny to expand across the continent.
  • Supported the annexation of Texas, viewing it as an essential step for the nation.
  • Aimed for complete control over the Oregon Territory, advocating for the northern boundary at the latitude of 54° 40'.
  • His campaign slogan included "Fifty-four forty or fight!" which highlighted his aggressive stance on Oregon during his presidential campaign.

• Outcome of Polk's Presidency

  • Under Polk's leadership and support for expansion, Texas was officially admitted as the 28th state in the United States.