Considered one of the greatest generals in US history, Ulysses S. Grant was as poor a businessman as he was great as a soldier. He was also something quite rare among men of greatness, he was unassuming, gave credit to others for the efforts they provided, and shunned publicity and hyperbole. In fact, his uniform was not the fancy, specially tailored one bedecked with gold that others used. Instead, he wore the same basic uniform as a private with little more added than symbols of his rank.

He was also a good judge of military character, mentoring men such as Philip Sheridan, William Sherman, and George Meade. His character was equally recognized by Abraham Lincoln as a man who could get things done and not ask for the moon in performing those tasks. In fact, Grant was probably one of the most successful generals in American history, completing every task that was assigned to him and leading the American army to victory after victory.

There were several myths about Grant, though these were based on some substance. One is that he was continually drunk. This is, of course, not true as he did not drink at all until he was separated from his family for long periods and then would go on benders that often lasted for several days. Much of this due to his very low tolerance of alcohol. However, these were quite infrequent and he was never drunk while on campaign. Another is that, like Soviet generals a century later, he would have no qualms about expending troops to reach an objective. This is not true as Grant detested direct assaults due to the high casualty count and would normally work to flank the enemy. When Grant was the general of the Army, often his subordinates would do this, and so Grant was made responsible for their actions. Grant was also quite compassionate and it was due to his position as head of the Army that those who fought on the Confederate side were freed from retribution after the war and allowed to keep their horses and return to civilian life unmolested.

His lack of business skills made him easy prey for those who would cheat him and both before and after his military career, he was frequently driven to near destitution by others. His presidency was not one of America's best as he chose his political allies poorly and the nation suffered through Reconstruction as a result.

Late in his life, he found he was an excellent author and his memoirs, finished weeks before his death, were and still are a best seller. It was thanks to this book that he was able to pay off his debts and provide for his widow. In those days, the president did not get a pension and Grant had to forfeit his military pension once he entered civilian political life. As a final tidbit of info, Grant was born Hiram Ulysses Grant, but thanks to a screwup when he first entered the Army, records showed him as Ulysses S Grant and he was never able to get it changed.

In all, it is a great book that tells of his life and especially his Civil War battles. It makes for a superb read and one I know you will enjoy.

 December 2012

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