Existing comment:
1846 The Mexican War:
Fifty thousand volunteer militia were called up at the president's request, many recruited with land and monetary bounties. The militia received the same military pay as regular soldiers and received a "quarter of land" for twelve months of service. Militia and volunteers made up 70% of the total force during the first American war fought entirely on foreign soil. The victory of the U.S. forces was considered a great success. Militia General Zachary Taylor rose through the ranks and to the presidency. |