James K. Polk

James Knox Polk (November 2 1795 – June 15 1849) was the eleventh President of the United States, serving from March 4, 1845 to March 4, 1849. Polk was born in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, but mostly lived in and represented the state of Tennessee. A Democrat, Polk served as Speaker of the House (1835–1839) and Governor of Tennessee (1839–1841) prior to becoming president. He is (as of 2005) the only former Speaker of the House to become President. He is noted for his expansionist beliefs, for his pledge to serve only one term, and for becoming the first "dark horse" (a candidate who unexpectedly gains the party nomination) to win the presidency.

Post-presidency

Polk is very arguably the only president ever to keep all of his campaign promises, however these considerable political accomplishments took their toll on his health. He became more tired and lost weight, and deep lines and dark circles etched his face. Full of enthusiasm and vigor when he entered office, Polk left the White House on March 4 1849, exhausted by his years of public service. He was succeeded in office by the hero of the Mexican-American War, the Whig General Zachary Taylor. Although Polk expected a peaceful retirement, he contracted cholera in New Orleans, Louisiana on a good will tour of the South.

Related Topics:
White House - March 4 - 1849 - Zachary Taylor - Cholera - New Orleans - Louisiana

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Polk died only 103 days after leaving the White House, at his new home, Polk Place, in Nashville, Tennessee, at 3:15 on the afternoon of Friday, June 15, 1849. Polk's devotion to his wife is illustrated by his last words: "I love you, Sarah. For all eternity, I love you." She lived at Polk Place for over forty years after his passing, a retirement longer than that of any other First Lady of the United States.

Related Topics:
Nashville - Tennessee - June 15 - 1849 - First Lady

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He was the youngest President to die, until James A. Garfield and John F. Kennedy, both of whom were assassinated during their presidencies. His post-presidential life was, furthermore, the shortest in the history of the United States.

Related Topics:
James A. Garfield - John F. Kennedy

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Both James and Sarah are buried in a tomb on the grounds of the Tennessee State Capitol Building, in Nashville.

Related Topics:
Tennessee - Nashville

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