2-VOLUME JAMES POLK BIOGRAPHY -- EASTON PRESS for sale in Fairfax, Virginia

$75

James K. Polk: Jacksonian 1 (copyright 1957) and James K. Polk: Continentalist 1 (copyright 1966) by Charles Sellers. This edition (copyright 1987) is part of The Library of the Presidents from Easton Press. These books, which are currently not available from the publisher, are in excellent condition.
Easton Press volumes are among the most beautiful and durable books available today. Each volume is bound in genuine leather with a hubbed spine and accented with 22-karat gold, and printed on acid-neutral paper. The Smyth-sewn pages have gilded edges and are complemented by a sewn-in satin ribbon page marker and distinctive endleaves.
In Volume One, Sellers takes the reader up to 1843, recounting Polk's path to the Presidency -- his successful law practice, his political appointments in the Federal government culminating in the coveted Speaker of the House position, and his stint as Governor of Tennessee. Sellers portrays Polk as a deliberate, fastidious, somewhat aloof man, who, in his private life enjoyed "the good life". This had no adverse effect on his tireless campaigning for the public good. His ardent support of efficient interstate roads, public education, and banks untarnished by greedy government hands place him in the ranks of the most "underappreciated" Presidents.
Polk's journey is rendered all the more colorful through Sellers' insightful grasp of Polk's "supporting cast", including his wife, his mentor, Henry Clay, Martin van Buren, and Davy Crockett.
Volume Two covers the period from 1843 to 1846, picking up after Polk's second defeat for re-election to the Tennessee governorship. Sellers vividly recreates the events and conflicts surrounding Polk's campaign for Vice President, his surprising nomination and election as President, his dramatic annexation of Texas and Oregon, and his declaration of war with Mexico. Polk's entire term was built upon the premise of continentalism -- the constant quest to acquire neighboring territory. He promoted the sentiment of Manifest Destiny, encouraging the nation's conviction that the United States had a God-given right to all the land from the Atlantic to the Pacific.
These books may be picked up or shipped. Pick up from seller requires payment in cash. For shipping, seller accepts PayPal only.