global news | January 17, 2026

The Greatest 19th Century American Leaders

Birthdate: November 24, 1784

Sun Sign: Sagittarius

Birthplace: Barboursville, Virginia, United States

Died: July 9, 1850

Zachary Taylor was the 12th U.S. president, from March 1849 till his death in July 1850, thus spending just 16 months in office. His heroism in the Mexican–American War had earned him the title of major general. A novice in political affairs, he was the last president who owned slaves.