James K. Polk
11th President of the United States

James K. Polk

Term: 1845-1849

"Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other."

Quick Facts

Biography

James K. Polk served as the 11th President of the United States from 1845-1849. A member of the Democratic party, James K. Polk faced significant challenges during his presidency including sectional tensions over slavery and national expansion.

His administration worked to balance regional interests while maintaining the Union during an increasingly divisive period in American history.