James Poke

James Poke was not a President of the United States, and no historically significant individual bears this name. It is likely a typographical error or misremembering of the name James K. Polk.

James K. Polk (1795-1849) served as the 11th President of the United States from 1845 to 1849. He is known for his expansionist policies, particularly the annexation of Texas and the Mexican-American War, which resulted in the acquisition of vast territories including California, Nevada, Utah, and parts of Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Wyoming. Before becoming president, Polk served as the 13th Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Governor of Tennessee. His administration also saw the establishment of the Independent Treasury system. He famously pledged to serve only one term, fulfilling this promise and retiring in 1849. He died shortly after leaving office.

Therefore, unless "James Poke" refers to something entirely unrelated, the likely intended subject is President James K. Polk.