What did James K. Polk promise as his Campaign Slogan?
1 Answer
"Fifty Four Forty or Fight!"
Explanation:
At the time of Polk's campaign there was a dispute between the United States and the United Kingdom over the Oregon Territory. The United States proposed a division of the region along the 49th parallel, but the United Kingdom argued for a division at the Columbia river.
The expansionist element in the Democratic party pushed for the United States to annex the entire territory up to the 54th parallel, specifically 54'-40". This was Polk's slogan promise.
At this time relations between Mexico and the United States were deteriorating. With the prospect of the US fighting two wars at the same time, one with the United Kingdom over the Oregon Territory and one with Mexico over Texas, cooler heads prevailed and the border was set at the original compromise position of the 49th parallel.
