Who was the Whig candidate that ran against James K. Polk in the election of 1844?

The Whig candidate who ran against James K. Polk in the 1844 election was Henry Clay. Clay was a prominent political figure and had previously served in various political roles, including as a member of the House of Representatives and as the Speaker of the House. He was well-known for his role in the development of early American national policies and was a leading advocate for the American System, which aimed to promote economic development through infrastructure improvements.

In the 1844 election, Clay's candidacy focused on issues such as expansion and tariff reform. He was a complex figure, often navigating a delicate line between the interests of different factions within the Whig Party. Despite his political experience and popularity, he ultimately lost the election to Polk, who was a strong proponent of Manifest Destiny, which aimed to expand U.S. territory across the continent. Clay's loss also highlighted the emerging sectional tensions in the country, particularly over the issue of slavery as it related to westward expansion.

This context helps illustrate why Henry Clay is the correct answer, as it places him firmly within the political landscape of the time and his specific role in the 1844 presidential election.