Timeline
1845 National Expansion
Through a joint resolution, Congress committed to the annexation of Texas in February. After action by the Texas Congress and approval by the electorate in Texas, Arkansas lost its place as the physical edge of the United States. Texas was admitted to the Union on December 29 as the 28th state. By this time, most Arkansawyers supported the acquisition of Texas as a part of the nation's natural expansion. Editor Solon Borland rejoiced at the news of annexation: "Let the Star of Empire Westward take its way!"
President Polk defended the annexation and claimed all of the Oregon country up to the 54 degree 40' parallel (Russian territory), evoking the Monroe Doctrine. He was supported by the expansionist battle cry, "54 40' or fight!" Nevertheless, in 1846 the United States and Great Britain reached a compromise setting the boundary between British Canada and Oregon at the 49th parallel, where the boundary remains today.
Realizing his need for political support in anticipation of a reelection campaign in 1846, Senator Ashley tried to enlist the aid of Governor Drew in forming a new Democratic political machine, but Drew declined. Ashley also tried to buy the Arkansas Banner to be his editorial voice, but the Democratic Central Committee, controlled by the "dynasty," rejected his offer.
Citizen involvement in the life of the community often took the form of public meetings, committees and associations. Public improvements were initiated this way and public concerns expressed. This year committees were formed to "foster the general welfare of the southwestern states," and to organize appropriate observance of the death of former President Andrew Jackson. The recently organized Mechanics Association of Little Rock protested the "ruinous competition" of convict labor from the State Penitentiary and the Little Rock Bridge Company was formed with hopes of spanning the Arkansas River at Little Rock and the Ouachita River at the military road.
Another form of public meeting aroused considerable dissension within the community as a 26 day revival won 95 converts to the Christian Church. Most of the converts were from other established denominations in Little Rock, which resented the competition.
