Thursday, August 9, 2012

Grant

This was the real story of the last year of General Ulysses S. Grant.  After his presidency, the General had retired to a financial business with his son.  Their partner stole their money and money of those who had invested with them.  This left the Grant family penniless.  Shortly after, Grant is approached with a proposal to write his memoirs.  Grant sees this as a way to provide for his family.  Within a month or so, Grant is diagnosed with throat cancer.  He manages to write a two volume book of his memories of the Civil War in order to provide for his wife and family.

This book was a fascinating look at Grant.  I had only known a little about his life.  I was struck by how highly regarded he was by both the North and the South following the Civil War because of his fairness and compassion in the surrender agreement.  I certainly came away with more respect for this military genius and former president.

Rating - B+

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