tell me, why should i be interested in james k. polk? >> by calculation was that james capel collides in the black hole of america's consciousness. that james k. polk collide -- resides in the black hole of america's consciousness. my aim was to tell the story in as compelling away as possible. >> tell us, his presidency was just before the civil war? >> yes, he was elected in 1844, served from 1845 to 1849. he was one of the youngest people elected president. he was 49, one of five presidents elected in their 40's. he gave up the presidency at age 53, from three died shortly thereafter. he literally worked himself to death. not the majority of our presidents have been more pridents. he was one. many believe that he maneuvered us into the war with mexico so we could gain territory from mexicans, which he did. >> texas and california. >> correct, and all of the southwest. he was also negotiating with the british over territory, oregon territory. >> with britain, which was interesting. >> he came very close to going to war with britain over