Grant - by Jean Edward Smith (Paperback)

About the Book

In this magnificent biography, Jean Edward Smith skillfully reconciles the disparate, conflicting assessments of Ulysses S. Grant, confirming his genius as a general, but convincingly showing that Grant's presidential accomplishments were as considerable as his military victories. 40 photos.

Book Synopsis

Finalist, Pulitzer Prize in Biography

Ulysses S. Grant was the first four-star general in the history of the United States Army and the only president between Andrew Jackson and Woodrow Wilson to serve eight consecutive years in the White House. As general in chief, Grant revolutionized modern warfare. As president, he brought stability to the country after years of war and upheaval. Yet today Grant is remembered as a brilliant general but a failed president.

In this comprehensive biography, Jean Edward Smith reconciles these conflicting assessments of Grant's life. He argues convincingly that Grant is greatly underrated as a president. Following the turmoil of Andrew Johnson's administration, Grant guided the nation through the post-Civil War era, overseeing Reconstruction in the South and enforcing the freedoms of new African-American citizens. His presidential accomplishments were as considerable as his military victories, says Smith, for the same strength of character that made him successful on the battlefield also characterized his years in the White House.

Review Quotes

"By far the best life of Grant ever written. . . . It is a remarkable achievement."--David Herbert Donald, author of Lincoln

"In the ongoing positive reevaluation of Grant's career, this is the best full-scale biography to have appeared."--James M. McPherson, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Battle Cry of Freedom

"This book one-ups previous Grant biographies."--Frank Scaturro "The Washington Times"

About the Author

Jean Edward Smith is the author of numerous works of history and biography, including biographies of John Marshall and Lucius D. Clay. He taught political science at the University of Toronto for more than thirty years and is currently the John Marshall Professor of Political Science at Marshall University.