Birth of Ulysses S. Grant
Ulysses S. Grant was born on April 27, 1822, in Point Pleasant, Ohio. His birth name was Hiram Ulysses Grant, but an error at West Point listed him as Ulysses S. Grant, a name he adopted for the rest of his life.
1822
1839
Admission to West Point
Ulysses S. Grant was admitted to the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. Despite his initial reluctance, he graduated in 1843, ranking 21st in his class.
1846
Service in the Mexican-American War
Grant served with distinction in the Mexican-American War under Generals Zachary Taylor and Winfield Scott. His experiences in this war honed his military skills and leadership abilities.
1854
Resignation from the Army
Facing financial difficulties and personal issues, Ulysses S. Grant resigned from the U.S. Army and returned to civilian life, struggling with various business ventures.
1861
Rejoining the Military
With the outbreak of the Civil War, Grant rejoined the military and was appointed Colonel of the 21st Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, quickly rising through the ranks due to his effective leadership.
1862
Battle of Fort Donelson
Grant achieved a significant victory at the Battle of Fort Donelson in Tennessee, earning the nickname "Unconditional Surrender" Grant and boosting his reputation.
1863
Siege of Vicksburg
Grant's successful campaign and siege of Vicksburg, Mississippi, was a turning point in the Civil War, giving the Union control of the Mississippi River.
1864
Promotion to General-in-Chief
President Abraham Lincoln appointed Ulysses S. Grant as General-in-Chief of the Union Armies, a position in which he led the final campaigns against the Confederacy.
1865
Surrender at Appomattox
General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865, effectively ending the Civil War.
1868
Election as President
Ulysses S. Grant was elected as the 18th President of the United States, taking office in March 1869. His presidency focused on Reconstruction and civil rights for freed slaves.
1872
Re-election as President
Grant was re-elected for a second term as President, continuing his efforts in Reconstruction and dealing with economic issues and corruption within his administration.
1877
End of Presidency
Ulysses S. Grant's presidency ended in 1877. He embarked on a world tour, receiving accolades from various countries and leaders.
1884
Financial Ruin
Grant faced financial ruin due to a fraudulent investment scheme. To provide for his family, he began writing his memoirs.
1885
Publication of Memoirs
Ulysses S. Grant completed his memoirs shortly before his death on July 23, 1885. The memoirs were a critical and commercial success, providing financial stability for his family.
1897
Grant's Tomb Dedication
Grant's Tomb, the final resting place of Ulysses S. Grant and his wife Julia, was dedicated in New York City on April 27, 1897, becoming a national monument.
