Presidents & generals
The Mexican-american War was a defining experience for battlefield commanders including several presidents of Mexico and the United States
The war featured past and future presidents
THE US ARMY COMMANDER WHO MASTERMINDED THE VERACRUZ LANDINGS AND FOUGHT HIS WAY TO MEXICO CITY 1786-1866 UNITED STATES
Scott was one of the most celebrated American commanders of the early 19th century. His first officer appointment was commanding light artillery in 1808, and he distinguished himself in combat many times during the War of 1812. By 1814 he was a brevet major general and commanded US forces during campaigns against Native Americans.
In 1841 Scott became the commanding general of the US Army and reached the pinnacle of his career in Mexico. He boldly suggested an amphibious landing at Veracruz, which was carried out unopposed in March 1847. Scott then pushed into the Mexican interior and won a series of battles, including Cerro Gordo, Churubusco and Molino del Rey.
After the Battle of Chapultepec, Scott occupied Mexico City and ended the war. Although he treated US soldiers and the local Mexican population equally, Scott was accused of misconduct and removed from command. He was later cleared of all charges.