Who is the author of 'Grant'?

The author of 'Grant' is Ron Chernow.

What are the main themes in 'Grant'?

The main themes in 'Grant' include American History, Biography, Political Biographies, Politics and Current Affairs.

What genre is 'Grant'?

'Grant' is categorized as Biography, Politics and Current Affairs.

Who is the author of the book 'Grant'?

The author of the book 'Grant' is Ron Chernow.

What is the main focus of the book 'Grant'?

The main focus of 'Grant' by Ron Chernow is a comprehensive biography of Ulysses S. Grant, exploring his life from his early years, military career, presidency, and personal struggles. Chernow delves into Grant's leadership during the Civil War, his efforts to promote civil rights for African Americans during Reconstruction, and the challenges he faced during his presidency, including political corruption and economic turmoil. The book aims to reframe Grant's legacy, highlighting his complexities as a leader and the moral courage he demonstrated throughout his life.

What are some key themes explored in 'Grant'?

Some key themes explored in 'Grant' by Ron Chernow include: Leadership and Strategy: The book examines Ulysses S. Grant's leadership style, his military strategies during the Civil War, and how these contributed to his eventual success as a general and president. Courage and Resilience: Grant's personal struggles, including his battles with alcoholism and his determination to overcome adversity, highlight themes of courage and resilience throughout his life. Race and Equality: The book delves into Grant's efforts towards civil rights, particularly focusing on his role in the Reconstruction era and his support for African American rights. The Complexity of War: Chernow presents a nuanced view of war, exploring the moral dilemmas and harsh realities faced by soldiers and leaders alike during the Civil War. Legacy and Memory: The narrative also reflects on how Grant's legacy has evolved over time, addressing the ways he has been remembered and misremembered in American history.

How does Ron Chernow portray Ulysses S. Grant in the book?

In 'Grant,' Ron Chernow portrays Ulysses S. Grant as a complex and multifaceted leader. Chernow presents Grant as a man of remarkable resilience and determination, particularly in the face of immense challenges during the Civil War. He highlights Grant's military genius and strategic acumen, as well as his commitment to the Union cause. Chernow delves into Grant's character, depicting him as humble and approachable, in contrast to many of his contemporaries. Moreover, Chernow does not shy away from detailing Grant's struggles, including his battles with alcoholism and his challenges in politics after the war. The biography also emphasizes Grant's commitment to civil rights and his efforts to promote Reconstruction policies, showcasing his belief in equality and justice. Overall, Chernow's portrayal is one of a flawed but ultimately admirable figure, capturing the complexities of Grant's life and legacy.

What significant historical events are discussed in 'Grant'?

In 'Grant' by Ron Chernow, several significant historical events are discussed, including the Civil War, the Reconstruction Era, the Indian Wars, and the development of the American West. The book covers Ulysses S. Grant's leadership in major battles such as the Siege of Vicksburg and the Appomattox Campaign, as well as his presidency during a time of post-war transition, civil rights struggles, and economic challenges. Additionally, Chernow touches on Grant's efforts to address issues related to Native American relations and the burgeoning industrialization of the United States.

Grant Book Summary

In "Grant," Ron Chernow uncovers the life of Ulysses S. Grant, the unlikely hero who became a symbol of perseverance. From his humble beginnings to leading the Union Army to victory in the Civil War, Grant's story is one of triumph against the odds. Chernow reveals the complexities of his character, including his struggles with failure and addiction, which make him a relatable figure. The biography also delves into Grant's presidency and his relentless fight for civil rights during Reconstruction. This compelling portrait of an American icon invites readers to discover the man behind the legend.

By Ron Chernow

Published: 2017

""The past is never dead. It's not even past.""

The #1 New York Times bestseller and New York Times Book Review 10 Best Books of 2017 “Eminently readable but thick with import . . . Grant hits like a Mack truck of knowledge.” —Ta-Nehisi Coates, The Atlantic Pulitzer Prize winner Ron Chernow returns with a sweeping and dramatic portrait of one of our most compelling generals and presidents, Ulysses S. Grant. Ulysses S. Grant's life has typically been misunderstood. All too often he is caricatured as a chronic loser and an inept businessman, or as the triumphant but brutal Union general of the Civil War. But these stereotypes don't come close to capturing him, as Chernow shows in his masterful biography, the first to provide a complete understanding of the general and president whose fortunes rose and fell with dizzying speed and frequency. Before the Civil War, Grant was flailing. His business ventures had ended dismally, and despite distinguished service in the Mexican War he ended up resigning from the army in disgrace amid recurring accusations of drunkenness. But in war, Grant began to realize his remarkable potential, soaring through the ranks of the Union army, prevailing at the battle of Shiloh and in the Vicksburg campaign, and ultimately defeating the legendary Confederate general Robert E. Lee. Along the way, Grant endeared himself to President Lincoln and became his most trusted general and the strategic genius of the war effort. Grant’s military fame translated into a two-term presidency, but one plagued by corruption scandals involving his closest staff members. More important, he sought freedom and justice for black Americans, working to crush the Ku Klux Klan and earning the admiration of Frederick Douglass, who called him “the vigilant, firm, impartial, and wise protector of my race.” After his presidency, he was again brought low by a dashing young swindler on Wall Street, only to resuscitate his image by working with Mark Twain to publish his memoirs, which are recognized as a masterpiece of the genre. With lucidity, breadth, and meticulousness, Chernow finds the threads that bind these disparate stories together, shedding new light on the man whom Walt Whitman described as “nothing heroic... and yet the greatest hero.” Chernow’s probing portrait of Grant's lifelong struggle with alcoholism transforms our understanding of the man at the deepest level. This is America's greatest biographer, bringing movingly to life one of our finest but most underappreciated presidents. The definitive biography, Grant is a grand synthesis of painstaking research and literary brilliance that makes sense of all sides of Grant's life, explaining how this simple Midwesterner could at once be so ordinary and so extraordinary. Named one of the best books of the year by Goodreads • Amazon • The New York Times • Newsday • BookPage • Barnes and Noble • Wall Street Journal

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