James Polk...
- Was born on November 2, 1795 in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.
- At the age of ten he moved to Tennessee to be with his grandfather.
- Suffered from gallstone infection growing up.
- Came from a decent family, owning thousands of acres and more than 50 slaves.
- Brought up religiously -Presbyterian.
- Graduated in 1818 with honors from the University of North Carolina where he studied law.
- Severed in the House of Representatives for seven years.
- Was an ally and a supporter of Andrew Jackson, who he became great friends with.
- Married to Sarah Childress on January 1, 1824.
- 11th president of the United States.
- Retired presidency after a single term.
- Often referred to as the first "dark horse" President.
- Followed Jackson's support of the"common man".
- Went into a unpopular war with Mexico during Presidency.
- Died on June 15, 1849 in Nashville, Tennessee.
Polk's wife, Sarah Childress
