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by thelintlady thelintlady on July 2nd, 2005

thelintlady thelintlady

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What is the meaning and origin of the phrase "Great Scott!"?

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  • by SiN667 on July 8th, 2005

    SiN667

    Scott is the American general Winfield Scott (1786 - 1866). He joined the army in 1809, and acquired the nickname "Fuss and Feathers" for his attention to dress and protocol. He didn't become "Great Scott" until the Mexican War.

    In the 1830s, Mexico included most of what is now New Mexico and California. President James Polk wanted to buy the territory from Mexico for $20 million. Mexico didn't feel like giving up half their country no matter what the price, so they attacked some Americans moving to the disputed area. In November 1846, Polk sent General Scott to attack Mexico. Scott won repeated victories and occupied Mexico City in 1848.

    Scott also ran for president as the Whig candidate in 1852, but lost by a narrow margin to the Democrat candidate Franklin Pierce.

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