Years in Office: 1845 to 1849

Under James K. Polk, the United States achieved its greatest territorial growth. The U.S. flag was raised over most of the area now made up of 9 of our western states. Polk's successful direction of the Mexican war won us most of its territory. Next to George Washington, Polk had the greatest record of successful programs. He carried out every item of his political campaign. His cold, silent, unfriendly, and ungenerous personality did not make him a popular president. Before he became president, Polk was a wealthy landowner, farmer, lawyer, and politician.

While Polk was in office there was no dancing, no liquor, and no card playing in the White House. This was because of his wife's strict religious upbringing. During his term in office Brigham Young led the Pioneers to Utah, Gold was discovered in California, the U.S Naval Academy was established in Indianapolis, Maryland, the first postage stamp was issued in the U.S., Elias Howe invented the sewing machine, and the states of Texas, Iowa, Wisconsin were added to the Union.