“Numerous emigrants, of every lineage and language, attracted by the civil and religious freedom we enjoy and by our happy condition, annually crowd to our shores, and transfer their heart, not less than their allegiance, to the country whose dominion belongs alone to the people.” – James Polk, US President
James K. Polk, the 11th President of the United States (1845-1849), is often remembered for his expansionist policies and significant role in shaping the territorial boundaries of the United States during the mid-19th century. A member of the Democratic Party, Polk was a strong advocate for Manifest Destiny, the belief that the U.S. was destined to expand across the North American continent.
The quote reflects Polk’s views on immigration and the ideals of American democracy. In this statement, he highlights the appeal of the United States as a land of opportunity, where individuals from diverse backgrounds are drawn to the nation by its promise of civil and religious freedoms. Polk emphasizes that these emigrants not only bring their physical presence but also their loyalty and commitment to the values of the United States.
This perspective is significant in the context of the mid-19th century, a time when the U.S. was experiencing a surge in immigration, particularly from Europe. Polk’s acknowledgment of the contributions of immigrants underscores the idea that the strength of the nation lies in its diversity and the collective allegiance of its people to democratic principles.
Moreover, the phrase “whose dominion belongs alone to the people” reflects the democratic ethos that was central to Polk’s vision of America. It suggests that the government derives its power from the consent of the governed, a foundational principle of American democracy.
Polk’s presidency was marked by significant territorial expansion, including the annexation of Texas and the acquisition of Oregon and California, which further shaped the nation’s identity and its role on the global stage. His quote serves as a reminder of the ideals of freedom and opportunity that have historically attracted immigrants to the United States, contributing to its growth and diversity.
