7-3 Flashcards
What is a Dark Horse?
Unexpected Candidate
What did James K. Polk promise in his campaign?
The annexation of both Texas and Oregon, and a purchase of California.
Who was the first Dark Horse ever elected President?
James K. Polk
What is “Fifty-Four Forty or Fight?”
Threat that the US used to convince England to give them Oregon. This slogan references the 54° 40’ parallel that was part of Oregon’s border. The US would take this parallel or go to war.
How did the US gain Sole possession of Oregon?
They practically threatened Britain with war in order to get the deal between the two parties.
What was the battle cry for Oregon?
Fifty-Four Forty or Fight
Who gets Credit for annexing Texas as a territory?
James K. Polk
What was Mexico upset about when Texas was annexed by the US?
Mexico still claimed Texas as their own land and didn’t recognize their independence.
What did the President do to resolve the issue Mexico was having with Texas?
He sent troops to “sit” on the border since the Rio Grande was seen as hostile territory by Mexicans.
What started the US vs Mexico war?
border disputes.
Who planned the war with Mexico for the US?
James K. Polk
Who secured independence for California?
John C. Fremont
What was California called when it was an independent country?
The Bear Flag Republic
What did the President do upon annexing California into the US?
He implemented the third phase of his war plan since Mexico refused to surrender.
What controversial move did the President make in implanting his third phase of the war plan?
He took Zachary Taylor out of the Fight for Winfield Scott because he saw Taylor as a threat in the next election, especially if he were to claim victory. Scott claimed victory, but cost the lives of many in the process.
