James K. Polk, Jacksonian, 1795-1843

Vol. 2 has title: James K. Polk, continentalist, 1843-1846. Includes bibliography.

A full account of Polk's pre-presidential career. Since Polk was immersed in so many of the major political developments of his day-the rise of popular democracy, the conflicts over the national bank, and other crucial issues of Jackson's administrations, and after 1835 the fateful emergence of sectional animosities, this biography is also a history of his generation's political experience.

[v. 1] Jacksonian, 1795-1843 -- Old Mecklenberg -- Growing up with the West -- The politics of democracy -- The factious opposition -- Defining democratic republicanism -- The democracy and the money power -- "Polk deserves a medal" -- Polk versus Bell -- Tennessee deserts Jackson -- Mr. Speaker Polk -- Tennessee redeemed -- The governorship - and higher stakes -- Frustration -- Finis? -- [v. 2] Continentalist, 1843-1846 -- The road back -- "This new and mighty question" -- "Polk and Texas!" -- Young Hickory -- The cabinet and Texas -- The continental vision -- The long, hot summer -- The representatives of the people -- Oregon -- A hard war averted - and an easy war gained -- Congress toes the line.