We are doing a gig in Normandy this Friday and have been asked to submit a last minute resume of our songs and origins. This is the only shanty we do and we would like to know which General Taylor it refers to.
(General taylor gained the day
Walk him along John carry him along etc)

My research so far brings me to believe it is about General Zachary Taylor a U.S. General from and about his expoits in the "Mexican War".

Could anyone confirm this or give me the real griff. It would be damaging to the British / French entente cordial if it turned out to be a british general from the Napolionic wars :-)

Help would be appreciated.

Spot