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Portrait of Zachary Taylor

Zachary Taylor

Zachary Taylor, the twelfth U.S. president and a career soldier known as "Old Rough and Ready," was born in Orange County, Virginia.

Profession
President, General
Born
November 24, 1784
Years active
1808–1850

Early life

Born in 1784 in Orange County, Taylor grew up on the Kentucky frontier and joined the U.S. Army as a young officer.

Career

He became a national hero for victories in the Mexican–American War, which carried him to the presidency in 1849 despite no prior political experience.

Major achievements

A slaveholder who nonetheless opposed the expansion of slavery into new territories, he took a firm Unionist stance during the sectional crisis.

Legacy

Taylor died just sixteen months into his term, remembered as one of the nation's most successful battlefield commanders.

References

Frequently asked questions about Zachary Taylor

What is Zachary Taylor known for?
Zachary Taylor, the twelfth U.S. president and a career soldier known as "Old Rough and Ready," was born in Orange County, Virginia. Zachary Taylor is recognized as a president and general.
Where is Zachary Taylor from?
Zachary Taylor is from Barboursville, Virginia.
When was Zachary Taylor born?
Zachary Taylor was born on November 24, 1784, in Barboursville, Virginia.
Is Zachary Taylor still active?
Zachary Taylor was professionally active from 1808 to 1850.

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