Walter Borneman and Robert Merry, both accomplished authors on James K. Polk, dive deep into the surprisingly successful presidency of this often-overlooked leader. They explore Polk's bold goals, such as acquiring Oregon and California, and the complexities of the Mexican-American War. Discussions range from the political landscape of 1844 to the fervor of Manifest Destiny. With tantalizing insights, they assess the transformative impact of Polk’s presidency on American expansionism and identity, illustrating the gap between his achievements and modern perceptions.