What did James Polk promise in the election of 1844?

Answer 1

Manifest Destiny (the expansion fervor of the US in the 1840s) was a large political issue that was not supported by the popular and Whig Henry Clay, leading to the underdog, James K. Polk to win the election.

Answer 2

His slogan was 54-40 or fight. He was threatening war with Great Britain over the Northern boundary of Oregon territory. In the background was the long standing objective known as the manifest destiny which was to extend the US to the Pacific, adding California and the territory between to the United States. This land was claimed by Mexico so he hoped to buy it from them or maybe force them to sell.

Answer 3

He promised to annex the state of Texas, something former president John Tyler refused to do.

Answer 4

Polk made five promises: to annex Texas; to acquire the Southwest; to annex the Oregon Territory to the 54/40 line; to establish an independent Treasury; and to serve only one term.

Answer 5

He had only five campaign promises: to acquire California from Mexico, settle the Oregon dispute, lower the tariff, to create a sub-treasury, and to not run for a second term.

Answer 6

Polk was committed to westward expansion. He also promised to serve only 1 term.

Answer 7

He promised not to run for a second term.