Assess the Validity of the Following Two Statements: "President James

Assess the validity of the following two statements: "President James K. Polk was one of America's near-great presidents" and "President James K. Polk was a reckless, disingenuous imperialist whose foreign policies and pursuit of the Mexican War violated some the most fundamental egalitarian and republican principles contained in America's Declaration of Independence." Which statement most accurately captures the political legacy of President James K. Polk? Defend your argument with specific examples drawn from the key political events and debates of President Polk's presidency.