General Zachary Taylor led the United States Army during the Mexican-American War. His military leadership during this conflict, particularly in battles such as Palo Alto and Buena Vista, earned him fame and popularity. Taylor's success on the battlefield characterized his military career and laid the groundwork for his later political aspirations. His presidency began in 1849, but his time in office was cut short by his death in 1850. His role in the Mexican-American War significantly influenced the territorial expansion of the United States and shaped the nation’s future regarding slavery and statehood.