Zachary taylor and winfield scott were both

military commanders in the mexican-american war.
successful candidates for the us presidency.
veterans of the war of 1812 who became vice presidents.
democrats who faced off against whig candidates.

military commanders in the Mexican-American War.

Both Zachary Taylor and Winfield Scott were generals in the war and were experienced soldiers who had commanded troops in wars prior to the Mexican-American War.

Zachary Taylor, referred to as "Old Rough and Ready" by his soldiers, was in his 60's by the outbreak of the war. He was stationed in the disputed land area between Texas and Mexico and was there for the first shots. He went on to win the presidency after the war. Winfield Scott was responsible for the land invasion which took Mexico City. He was named governor of Mexico City and held the capital until the war ended.