General Zachary Taylor

Definition

Zachary Taylor was a U.S. military leader who served as the 12th president of United States from 1849 until his death in 1850. He became a national hero due to his victories in Mexican-American War.

Analogy

Think of General Zachary Taylor like your school's star quarterback who later becomes class president. His success on the battlefield (football field) made him popular and helped him secure presidency (class presidency).

Related terms

Battle of Buena Vista: A major battle of Mexican-American war where Taylor secured a significant victory against larger Mexican forces.

Whig Party: The political party that Taylor belonged to when he ran for presidency.

Compromise of 1850: A series of laws passed during Taylor's short-lived presidency aimed at resolving territorial and slavery issues related to westward expansion.