54-40 or Fight

"54-40
or fight!" said Dems. Mexican
American War.

Achievements were great,
But at a cost. Imagine
a more peaceful state.

He gave us Grier, and
Grier wrote Prize, putting Lincoln's
Blockade in the clear.

He gave us Grier and
Grier voted Scott, putting, Dred's
name back under key.

The youngest to rise
to that cherished prize. Yet he died
not three months removed.

Great by his standards.
Did what he said. Took country
from sea to sea.

Forgotten for years,
then lauded by some, his methods
brought death and great tears.