James K. Polk, the eleventh president of the United States, championed expansionism and 'Manifest Destiny' during his presidency from 1845 to 1849. He resolved the Oregon Territory boundary issue with Britain and led the United States into the Mexican-American War, resulting in the acquisition of 529,000 square miles from Mexico. Polk's presidency was marked by his overworking tendencies, which contributed to his fragile health and led to his death shortly after leaving office. His early life was influenced by his family's diverse religious backgrounds and his mother's efforts to instill Calvinist values.
Throughout his single term as president, Polk effectively settled a longstanding boundary dispute with Britain over the Oregon Territory, asserting American claims and securing significant territory.
The Mexican-American War, overseen by Polk, culminated in Mexico's significant land concession, yielding 529,000 square miles to the United States, thus fulfilling expansionist goals.
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