Definition
James K. Polk (1795-1849) was the 11th President of the United States. He served from 1845 to 1849. Polk is known for his expansionist policies, particularly the annexation of Texas and the Mexican-American War. He achieved all his major policy goals during his single term. Polk was a Democrat and a protΓ©gΓ© of Andrew Jackson. Think of him as the leader who significantly expanded the US territory.