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Grant
1104 pages, 2017
Grant's life has typically been misunderstood. All too often he is caricatured as a chronic loser and inept businessman, fond of drinking to excess; as the triumphant but brutal Union general of the Civil War; or as a credulous and hapless president whose tenure came to symbolize the worst excesses of the Gilded Age.
These stereotypes don't come close to capturing adequately his spirit and the sheer magnitude of his monumental accomplishments. Chernow has produced a portrait of Grant that is a masterpiece, 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 been dismal, and despite distinguished service in the Mexican War, he ended up resigning from the army in disgrace amid recurring accusations of drunkenness—an ironic fate for someone who never touched liquor.
In 'Grant', Ron Chernow paints a vivid picture of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States. He explores Grant's life, from his humble beginnings to his rise as a military leader and president. Chernow's research helps us see Grant as a complex and deeply human figure, not just a historical icon.
Chernow's book shows us that Grant's life was full of ups and downs. Despite facing numerous challenges, including alcoholism and financial struggles, Grant never gave up. His resilience and determination are a powerful reminder that we can overcome obstacles in our own lives.
Chernow highlights Grant's leadership during the Civil War and his presidency. He shows how Grant's decisions shaped the course of American history. By looking into Grant's leadership style, we can learn valuable lessons about decision-making and responsibility.
One of the key themes in 'Grant' is the fight for racial equality. Chernow explores Grant's role in ending slavery and his efforts to protect the rights of African Americans during Reconstruction. This book encourages us to reflect on the ongoing struggle for equality in our society.
Throughout 'Grant', Chernow emphasizes the importance of integrity. Despite his flaws and mistakes, Grant was known for his honesty and sincerity. This book inspires us to uphold these values in our own lives.
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Chernow’s deep dive into Grant’s life gives you as much insight into the political history of the United States during the mid-19th century as it does into the man himself.
Bill Gates - Microsoft Co-FounderChernow’s biography of Grant is a gift to history, a superb exploration of the man and his enduring legacy.
The New York Times - Global NewspaperChernow’s Grant is a masterful piece of scholarship that reads like a novel. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in American history.
The Washington Post - National NewspaperChernow’s Grant is a monumental work that offers a fresh and nuanced look at a man often caricatured in American history.
The Wall Street Journal - Business NewspaperChernow’s Grant is a triumph, a mesmerizing biography of a complex man and an important era in American history.
The Guardian - British NewspaperRecommendations
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Grant found in libraries
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