2-798-526 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Mr. Polk, candidate for the presidency, 1844. Portrait of American politician James Knox Polk. Democrat Polk defeated Whig Henry Clay in a close contest which turned on the controversial issues of slavery and the annexation of the Republic of Texas. 'The great political contest for the ascendancy between the two powerful parties of Whig and Democratic in the United States, is now (Nov. 1) near at hand; and these respective juntas are marshalling their forces, discussing the broad principles of their doctrine and political faith, exciting the multitude by cannon-firing, song-singing, soul-stirring music, processions, harangues, &c...another question, too, has sprung up, which has given rise to a new party - it is the question of the naturalization of foreigners'. From "Illustrated London News", 1844, Vol V.