35 Facts About Zachary Taylor Death

Zachary Taylor: A Brief Overview

Zachary Taylor, the 12th President of the United States, served from March 1849 until his sudden death in July 1850. Known as "Old Rough and Ready" due to his military background, Taylor's presidency was cut short under mysterious circumstances. Here are some intriguing facts about his life and untimely demise.

Early Life and Military Career

Before diving into the details of his death, it's essential to understand Taylor's background. His early life and military career shaped his character and leadership style.

1. Born on November 24, 1784, in Virginia, Taylor grew up on a plantation in Kentucky.
2. He joined the U.S. Army in 1808, beginning a military career that spanned over four decades.
3. Taylor earned national fame during the Mexican-American War, particularly for his victories at the Battles of Palo Alto and Buena Vista.
4. Despite his military success, Taylor had no prior political experience before becoming president.

Presidential Tenure

Taylor's time in office was brief but eventful. His presidency dealt with significant issues, including the debate over slavery and the expansion of U.S. territories.

5. Taylor was elected as a Whig candidate, despite having no clear political platform.
6. He took a strong stance against the expansion of slavery into the newly acquired territories from the Mexican-American War.
7. Taylor's administration faced the challenge of integrating California and New Mexico as states.
8. He opposed the Compromise of 1850, which aimed to ease tensions between free and slave states.

The Mysterious Illness

Taylor's sudden illness and death have sparked numerous theories and speculations. Here are some key facts about the events leading up to his demise.

9. On July 4, 1850, Taylor attended a Fourth of July celebration at the Washington Monument.
10. He consumed a large quantity of raw fruit and iced milk during the event.
11. Shortly after, Taylor fell ill with severe stomach pains, nausea, and diarrhea.
12. His condition rapidly deteriorated over the next few days.

The Death of a President

Taylor's death shocked the nation and led to various theories about its cause. Let's explore the details surrounding his final days.

13. Taylor died on July 9, 1850, just five days after falling ill.
14. The official cause of death was listed as acute gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
15. Some historians believe Taylor may have suffered from cholera morbus, a common illness at the time.
16. Others speculate that he was poisoned, possibly due to his political stance on slavery.

Theories and Investigations

Over the years, various theories and investigations have attempted to uncover the true cause of Taylor's death. Here are some notable points.

17. In 1991, Taylor's body was exhumed to test for arsenic poisoning.
18. The tests revealed no significant traces of arsenic, ruling out poisoning as the cause of death.
19. Some experts suggest that Taylor's symptoms were consistent with typhoid fever, another common illness of the era.
20. Despite modern investigations, the exact cause of Taylor's death remains a topic of debate.

Legacy and Impact

Taylor's death had significant political and historical implications. His legacy continues to be a subject of interest and study.

21. Millard Fillmore, Taylor's vice president, succeeded him after his death.
22. Fillmore signed the Compromise of 1850 into law, which Taylor had opposed.
23. Taylor's death highlighted the vulnerability of the presidency and the importance of a clear line of succession.
24. His military achievements and brief presidency are remembered as a unique chapter in American history.

Personal Life and Family

Taylor's personal life and family background also provide insight into his character and values.

25. Taylor married Margaret Mackall Smith in 1810, and they had six children together.
26. His daughter, Sarah Knox Taylor, married Jefferson Davis, the future president of the Confederate States.
27. Taylor was a slave owner, despite his opposition to the expansion of slavery into new territories.
28. He was known for his simple and unpretentious lifestyle, even while serving as president.

Fun and Lesser-Known Facts

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Zachary Taylor that add depth to his story.

29. Taylor never voted in a presidential election before his own.
30. He was the last president to own slaves while in office.
31. Taylor's nickname, "Old Rough and Ready," reflected his rugged and straightforward personality.
32. He was the second president to die in office, after William Henry Harrison.
33. Taylor's favorite horse, Old Whitey, grazed on the White House lawn during his presidency.
34. He was buried in the Zachary Taylor National Cemetery in Louisville, Kentucky.
35. Taylor's sudden death remains one of the most mysterious and debated events in American presidential history.

Reflecting on Zachary Taylor's Death

Zachary Taylor's death remains a fascinating chapter in American history. His sudden illness and demise sparked numerous theories and debates. Some believe he was poisoned, while others attribute his death to natural causes. Despite modern forensic analysis, the exact cause remains uncertain. Taylor's passing had significant political implications, influencing the balance of power in a nation on the brink of civil war. His legacy, though often overshadowed by his brief presidency, continues to intrigue historians and the public alike. Understanding the circumstances surrounding his death provides insight into the turbulent times of mid-19th century America. Whether viewed through the lens of conspiracy or historical fact, Zachary Taylor's death is a reminder of the complexities and uncertainties that often accompany historical events.