Quotes from James K. Polk

Well may the boldest fear and the wisest tremble when incurring responsibilities on which may depend our country's peace and prosperity, and in some degree the hopes and happiness of the whole human family.

The Senate are a branch of the treaty-making power, and by consulting them in advance of his own action upon important measures of foreign policy which may ultimately come before them for their consideration, the President secures harmony of action between that body and himself.

Under the benignant providence of Almighty God the representatives of the States and of the people are again brought together to deliberate for the public good.

Foreign powers do not seem to appreciate the true character of our government.

A crowd of persons came in as soon as my office was opened. Among them were several ladies who called to pay their respects. None who called had any business of more importance than an ardent desire to serve their country, provided they could be appointed to a good office. As I has none of these to dispose of, they were, of course, disappointed.

It becomes us in humility to make our devout acknowledgments to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe for the inestimable civil and religious blessings with which we are favored.

One great object of the Constitution was to restrain majorities from oppressing minorities or encroaching upon their just rights.

Minorities have a right to appeal to the Constitution as a shield against such oppression.

Our relations with the various Indian tribes continue to be of a pacific character.

I cannot adequately express the horror I feel for a man who can be so base as to veil his hypocrisy under the cloak of religion, and state the base falsehood he has done.

All distinctions of birth or of rank have been abolished. All citizens, whether native or adopted, are placed upon terms of precise equality. All are entitled to equal rights and equal protection.

No union exists between church and state, and perfect freedom of opinion is guaranteed to all sects and creeds.