Throughout history, Americans have sought out military leaders to serve as president. And no matter how they rank as presidents, the military hero always has a secure place in the American pantheon. Such a man was Zachary Taylor, twelfth president of the United States. Zachary Taylor was born in Virginia, son of a Revolutionary War veteran. As a soldier, they called him "Old Rough and Ready", and he led his men into battle riding side-saddle on his horse "Old Whitey."
