Polk really did not want war.But he thought a strong position was necessary in negotiating with Britain.He said softer treatment only led to stronger demands from Britain.

• 波尔克并没有真正考虑战争的问题，但他认为在与英国谈判过程中持有强硬观点是必要的，他说，过于温和的态度只能导致英国更强烈的要求。