LECTURES

January’s book club selection is “A Country of Vast Designs: James K. Polk and the Conquest of the American Continent” by James Merry. In this thoughtful and entertaining history, Merry sheds light on Polk’s presidency and the goals Polk set for himself – all of which he achieved and which profoundly shaped the United States. They included cementing the annexation of Texas, resolving the dispute with Great Britain over the Oregon Territory, reducing the tariff, and most importantly provoking the Mexican American war to position the United States to dominate the continent. The book is a compelling and perceptive portrait of a complex and controversial president. The book club is free and open to the public. New members are always welcome.