To avoid entangling alliances has been a maxim of our policy ever since the days of Washington, and its wisdom no one will attempt to dispute.

Buchanan served as Secretary of State under President Polk from 1845 to 1849 despite objections from Buchanan's rival Vice President George Dallas. Efforts were made by statesmen such as Sen. James K.

(English pronunciation: /bjuːˈkænən/; April 23 1791 – June 1 1868) was the 15th President of the United States (1857–1861). "
When he left office popular opinion had turned against him and the Democratic Party had split in two. Buchanan first and foremost an attorney was noted for his mantra "I acknowledge no master but the law.