United States History, Law and Politics: Presidents

President James Knox Polk

by William P. Meyers

James Knox Polk was the 11th President of the United States of America. He was born on November 2, 1795 in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. A Democratic Party member, he became President on March 4, 1845 and served until March 4, 1849. He died on June 15, 1849. Polk was a slaver who instigated a war against Mexico, which greatly enlarged the territory conquered by the United States.

This page provides links to essays on James Knox Polk, or to events during his presidency, by William P. Meyers, as well as links to external Web sites with related information.