A Great American

Ulysses Simpson Grant

Eighteenth President 1869-1877

Born: April 27, 1822 in Point Pleasant, Ohio. Named Hiram Ulysses Grant.

Education: Graduated from the United States Military Academy, West Point, New York.

Occupation: Soldier. (Spent a short time in the real estate business but was a poor businessman. Ended up working for his father's store until the Civil War broke out and volunteers were needed.)

Religion: Methodist

Family Life: Married Julia Dent of Missouri in 1848. They had three sons and one daughter. Julia was a famous hostess of the White House.

Political Career: As a hero of the Civil War, the Republicans nominated Grant in 1868. After serving two terms as President he toured the world. Grant sought re-nomination for the Presidency in 1880, but was defeated.

Highlights of His Presidency: Opposed inflation of currency, dealt wisely with foreign policy. Second administration marred by scandal as his appointees were charged with accepting bribes. After retirement, wrote his memoirs to restore his fortunes and provide for his family, despite his suffering a painful cancerous affliction of the throat.

Appearance: Short (5'8 1/2 ") and stocky, with a busy, dark brown beard.

Died: July 23, 1885, of cancer, at Mount McGregor, New York, age 63.

Buried: In a magnificent tomb on Riverside Drive in New York City, now the General Grant National Memorial.

 

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