America 250 · #18 President · 1869–1877
Ulysses S. Grant
The general who won the war and the president who fought for Black citizenship.
The biography
Grant
Ron Chernow · 2017
The modern rehabilitation — now the scholarly mainstream.
Worth considering
Grant
Jean Edward Smith · 2001
The earlier rehabilitation, also excellent.
On screen
Grant
Series · 2020
History Channel three-part miniseries based on Chernow's book; dramatic reenactments + interviews.
More like this →In his own words
Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant
Ulysses S. Grant · 1885
His own voice, finished as he was dying — Twain published it; one of the great American memoirs.
Common questions
What is the best biography of Ulysses S. Grant?
The definitive biography of Ulysses S. Grant is Grant by Ron Chernow. This comprehensive work is widely considered the standard for understanding his life, covering his military leadership during the Civil War and his significant efforts to protect Black citizenship during his presidency from 1869 to 1877.
Should I start with the Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant?
Yes, reading the Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant is an excellent way to engage with his life in his own words. While Ron Chernow's biography provides a modern, historical perspective, Grant's own writing offers a unique primary source account of his experiences and military career.
Is there a good film about Ulysses S. Grant?
The 2020 documentary miniseries titled Grant is a high-quality screen treatment of his life. It effectively covers his journey from the general who won the Civil War to the president who fought for the rights of Black citizens during the Reconstruction era.
Are there alternative biographies of Ulysses S. Grant to consider?
While Ron Chernow's biography is the definitive choice, there are alternative biographies available that offer different perspectives on his life. These alternatives provide useful tradeoffs for readers who want to explore his dual legacy as a wartime general and a president committed to civil rights.
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