Zachary Taylor, the 12th President of the United States, holds a unique and somewhat mysterious place in American history. His death in July 1850 shocked the nation and has continued to intrigue historians for generations. But what exactly led to the sudden demise of this American leader? Let’s delve into the story of Zachary Taylor’s tragic end and the lingering questions that surround it.
Who Was Zachary Taylor?
Zachary Taylor was a war hero long before he became President. Known as “Old Rough and Ready,” Taylor earned his nickname through a series of successful military campaigns during the Mexican-American War. His popularity as a military leader led to his nomination by the Whig Party, and he was elected President in 1848, serving from March 1849 until his death in July 1850 [4].
The Fateful Day: July 4, 1850
The events leading to Taylor’s death began on July 4, 1850, when the President attended an Independence Day celebration at the Washington Monument. It was a hot summer day, and after the festivities, Taylor returned to the White House where he reportedly consumed a large quantity of cherries and iced milk. This seemingly innocent meal would soon have fatal consequences [2].
After indulging in the cherries and iced milk, Taylor began to experience severe stomach pains, cramping, diarrhea, and nausea. These symptoms persisted over the next few days, despite the best efforts of his doctors. By July 9, Taylor’s condition had deteriorated significantly, and he ultimately succumbed to what was then diagnosed as cholera morbus, a term used at the time to describe severe gastroenteritis [3].
Theories and Speculations
The suddenness of Taylor’s death sparked a variety of theories and speculations. Some believed that he had been poisoned, possibly due to political motives. This theory was so persistent that, in 1991, Taylor’s remains were exhumed for testing. However, the tests revealed no evidence of poisoning, and the official cause of death remains acute gastroenteritis, likely triggered by the cherries and milk combination [6].
Taylor’s death was a significant event in U.S. history, as it abruptly ended his presidency just 16 months into his term. His passing led to the succession of Vice President Millard Fillmore, who assumed the presidency and played a crucial role in the Compromise of 1850, a series of measures that aimed to ease tensions between the North and South over the issue of slavery [5].
While Zachary Taylor’s presidency was short-lived, his death has left an enduring mark on American history. The mysterious circumstances surrounding his demise continue to capture the imagination, serving as a reminder of the fragile nature of life and the unexpected turns that history can take. Whether it was the heat of the day, the cherries and iced milk, or some other factor, Taylor’s death remains one of the most intriguing episodes in the annals of U.S. presidential history.
