Today in History: Zachary Taylor
Today in History–May 8–the Library of Congress features Zachary Taylor, who led U.S. troops to defeat the Mexican army in a two-day battle at Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma on this day in 1846. Two years later he became president of the United States but his term was short; he died in office after serving only 16 months. Learn more by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to access more primary sources about this general and 12th U.S. president.
Illustrated timeline of Zachary Taylor’s life
Zachary Taylor 1849 inauguration items
Zachary Taylor’s first annual message to Congress
Zachary Taylor Papers collection
Zachary Taylor broadsides & other printed ephemera
Zachary Taylor books & articles
Zachary Taylor historical newspaper coverage through 1851
President Taylor historical newspaper coverage 1849-1850
Selected 19th-century magazine articles
- “The Nomination: General Taylor” The American Whig Review, July 1848
- “The Taylor Anecdote Book. Anecdotes of Zachary Taylor and the Mexican War” The American Whig Review, August 1848
- “Biographical Sketch of Zachary Taylor” Harper’s New Monthly Magazine, August 1850
Stories from America’s Library
More resources