James K. Polk's Presidency and Expansion

James K. Polk, the 11th President of the United States, served from 1845 to 1849. His presidency is noted for significant territorial expansion, including the acquisition of Oregon, Texas, and territories from the Mexican-American War. Polk's administration promoted Manifest Destiny, expanded U.S. territory by over a million square miles, and supported economic growth through policies like lowering tariffs. Despite controversies, his presidency left a lasting impact on American history. Polk served only one term, setting a precedent for limited presidential terms.

What was a key theme of James K. Polk's presidency?

• Military reduction

• Technological innovation

• Territorial expansion

• Economic isolation

Where did James K. Polk begin his political career?

• North Carolina

• Virginia

• Tennessee

• Georgia

What was the central promise of Polk's presidential campaign?

• Ending slavery

• Promoting industrialization

• Fulfilling Manifest Destiny

• Reducing taxes

Which territory was acquired through negotiation with Britain during Polk's presidency?

• Florida

• Oregon Country

• California

• Texas

What was a significant outcome of the Mexican-American War?

• Acquisition of Alaska

• Annexation of Hawaii

• Purchase of Louisiana

• Acquisition of California and other southwestern territories

How did Polk's presidency impact U.S. territory?

• It remained the same

• It decreased by half

• It expanded by more than one million square miles

• It expanded by a few hundred square miles

What economic policy did Polk support during his presidency?

• Nationalizing banks

• Lowering tariffs

• Increasing tariffs

• Subsidizing agriculture

Which institution did Polk help establish to promote modernization?

• Smithsonian Institution

• Federal Reserve

• Library of Congress

• National Park Service

What precedent did Polk set by serving only one term?

• Three-term presidency

• Limited presidential terms

• Two-term presidency

• Unlimited presidential terms

How is Polk's legacy often viewed in terms of American expansion?

• As irrelevant

• As a minor influence

• As a key architect of westward expansion

• As a failure