Quotes by James K. Polk

About James K. Polk:

James Knox Polk was the 11th President of the United States (1845–1849). Polk was born in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. He later lived in and represented Tennessee. A Democrat, Polk served as the 17th Speaker of the House of Representatives (1835–1839) and Governor of Tennessee (1839–1841). Polk was the surprise (dark horse) candidate for president in 1844, defeating Henry Clay of the rival Whig Party by promising to annex Texas. Polk was a leader of Jacksonian Democracy during the Second Party System.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Well may the boldest fear and the wisest tremble when incurring responsibilities on which may depend our country's peace and prosperity, and in some degree the hopes and happiness of the whole human family.

James K. Polk

The passion for office among members of Congress is very great, if not absolutely disreputable, and greatly embarrasses the operations of the Government. They create offices by their own votes and then seek to fill them themselves.

James K. Polk

Foreign powers do not seem to appreciate the true character of our government.

James K. Polk

Although... the Chief Magistrate must almost of necessity be chosen by a party and stand pledged to its principles and measures, yet in his official action he should not be the President of a party only, but of the whole people of the United States.

James K. Polk

Peace, plenty, and contentment reign throughout our borders, and our beloved country presents a sublime moral spectacle to the world.

James K. Polk

One great object of the Constitution was to restrain majorities from oppressing minorities or encroaching upon their just rights.

James K. Polk

The world has nothing to fear from military ambition in our Government.

James K. Polk

Under the benignant providence of Almighty God the representatives of the States and of the people are again brought together to deliberate for the public good.

James K. Polk

No president who performs his duties faithfully and conscientiously can have any leisure.

James K. Polk

It becomes us in humility to make our devout acknowledgments to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe for the inestimable civil and religious blessings with which we are favored.

James K. Polk

With me it is exceptionally true that the Presidency is no bed of roses.

James K. Polk

I am heartily rejoiced that my term is so near its close. I will soon cease to be a servant and will become a sovereign.

James K. Polk

There is more selfishness and less principle among members of Congress than I had any conception of, before I became President of the U.S.

James K. Polk

Minorities have a right to appeal to the Constitution as a shield against such oppression.

James K. Polk

Author Bio

  • NameJames K. Polk
  • DescriptionAmerican politician, 11th president of the United States (in office from 1845 to 1849)
  • AliasesJames Knox Polk; James Polk
  • BornNovember 2, 1795
  • DiedJune 15, 1849
  • CountryUnited States Of America
  • ProfessionPolitician