Zachary Taylor

Illustration of a man's head and shoulders on a slight blue background over blue text

Zachary Taylor was the 12th President of the United States from 1849-1850 but became a national figure after years of distinguished service in the U.S. Military. After graduating from West Point military academy in 1808, Taylor saw service in the War of 1812, the Mississippi War, the Blackhawk War, the Second Seminole War, and the Mexican-American War. These conflicts all helped to grow his popularity among voters especially after his successful repulsion of a much larger Mexican Army at the Battle of Buena Vista. As the war came to an end, the Whig Party tapped Taylor to lead their ticket in the 1848 Presidential Election. He secured his victory and took office but only held it for one year after succumbing to an unknown digestive disease he received from food served at a fundraising event in the Capitol. 

This button is part of a set of 31 that were issued as premiums in Cracker Jack.