Zachary Taylor

Zachary Taylor (1784–1850) was a United States Army general and the 12th president of the United States. His victories in the Mexican–American War made him a national political figure.

James K. Polk: James K. Polk was the 11th president of the United States, serving from 1845 to 1849. As commander in chief, Polk directed the war in which Taylor became a celebrated general.
Battle of Palo Alto: The Battle of Palo Alto was an 1846 clash between United States and Mexican forces in present-day Texas. Taylor’s victory there opened the fighting that made him a national military figure.
Compromise of 1850: The Compromise of 1850 was a set of laws addressing slavery and territorial disputes after the Mexican–American War. Taylor opposed extending the compromise to California and New Mexico before his death.
Whig Party: The Whig Party was a major American political party that opposed the Democrats from the 1830s to the 1850s. The Whigs nominated Taylor, a political newcomer, for president in 1848.
Winfield Scott: Winfield Scott was a senior United States Army general who led the 1847 campaign against Mexico City. Scott was Taylor’s fellow general and rival for military prestige during the Mexican–American War.
Battle of Resaca de la Palma: The Battle of Resaca de la Palma was an 1846 United States victory over Mexican forces near the Rio Grande. Taylor’s second victory in two days strengthened his reputation after Palo Alto.
California Gold Rush: The California Gold Rush was the mass migration to California after gold was discovered there in 1848. The rush accelerated California’s bid for statehood, a dispute confronting Taylor’s administration.
Antonio López de Santa Anna: Antonio López de Santa Anna was a Mexican military leader and politician who served multiple terms as president. Santa Anna commanded the Mexican army against Taylor at Buena Vista.
Millard Fillmore: Millard Fillmore was the 13th president of the United States, succeeding Zachary Taylor after his death. Taylor’s vice president took office when Taylor died in 1850.
Battle of Monterrey: The Battle of Monterrey was an 1846 battle in which United States forces captured the Mexican city of Monterrey. Taylor’s costly victory and negotiated armistice drew criticism from President Polk.

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