Which factor contributed to Taylor's victory at Buena Vista?

• A. Taylor's battlefield leadership, defensive position, and use of terrain and mobile artillery
• B. Santa Anna's decisive frontal assault
• C. Mexican numerical superiority
• D. British naval support

Answer: (A)

Taylor’s victory at Buena Vista came from how he fought: a disciplined defense that exploited the terrain and his artillery to blunt and repulse Mexican assaults. By choosing and holding a strong defensive position in rough terrain, he forced the enemy to attack in constrained ways where his forces could maintain cohesion and deliver effective fire. His leadership kept the troops organized under pressure, and mobile artillery could strike as Mexican columns closed in, slowing and breaking their momentum. Santa Anna’s attempts at a decisive frontal push didn’t break the line, and external help such as British naval support was not a factor. In short, the combination of a solid defensive setup, skilled leadership, and the tactical use of terrain and artillery explains why the American force prevailed.