Think about someone you have observed. Did you study their attitude, the way they talk and treat people, their clothes? Objective During the U.S. Mexican War, Ulysses S. Grant fought under two leading commanders – Generals Winfield Scott and Zachary Taylor. How did Grant’s observations on Scott and Taylor prepare him for future leadership roles as a Civil War General and President? Students will compare, contrast, and reflect on primary documents to infer how these general influenced Ulysses S. Grant. Background During the U.S.-Mexican War, 2nd Lieutenant Ulysses S. Grant served under two Gene Duration: 60 Minutes.