A Country of Vast Designs: James K. Polk and the Conquest of the American Continent
Author:
Genres: Biographies & Memoirs, History
Book Type: Paperback
Author:
Genres: Biographies & Memoirs, History
Book Type: Paperback
Some of the United States' best presidential administrations have come from presidents who were just barely in charge. Polk seems to have been sliding across a constantly shifting ice mass, and yet when all was said and done, he accomplished all his campaign promises, had added the land that would eventually become Arizona, New Mexico, California, Nevada, Utah, Oregon, Washington and Idaho, increased federal income by lowering import tariffs, and established a viable, solvent national treasury.
His cabinet, congress, and his generals backbit him at every turn, and yet he remained loyal to them. Kind of like Lincoln. Or Washington (who was victim of a lot less backbiting, but still ignored what there was in his dignified way). Really remarkable trait. Never seek revenge. Never get petty. Still accept the input of, and show respect to, the connivers who are supposed to be supporting your aims. It's certainly been beyond the capabilities of some presidents.
His cabinet, congress, and his generals backbit him at every turn, and yet he remained loyal to them. Kind of like Lincoln. Or Washington (who was victim of a lot less backbiting, but still ignored what there was in his dignified way). Really remarkable trait. Never seek revenge. Never get petty. Still accept the input of, and show respect to, the connivers who are supposed to be supporting your aims. It's certainly been beyond the capabilities of some presidents.
