Ron Chernow's biography, Grant, is widely praised for its comprehensive research and engaging narration. Many commend Chernow's success in redefining Ulysses S. Grant’s public image, offering new insights into his presidency and personal life. However, some reviewers find the book's length excessive, citing occasional repetitive content. Overall, Chernow’s work is seen as a significant, well-crafted contribution to historical literature.

A reader who enjoys Grant by Ron Chernow typically appreciates richly detailed biographies and American history. Fans of David McCullough's John Adams and Doris Kearns Goodwin's Team of Rivals will find Chernow's meticulous research and compelling narrative style engrossing. These readers value deep dives into historical figures' complexities and legacies.

Grant by Ron Chernow details the life of Ulysses S. Grant, born in rural Ohio, attending West Point, and serving in the Mexican-American War. He rejoined the army during the Civil War, distinguishing himself and achieving victory for the Union. As president, Grant aimed to protect African American rights during Reconstruction but faced significant challenges. After his presidency, Grant faced financial ruin but secured his family's future by writing his memoirs before dying of throat cancer. The book addresses themes of alcoholism, violence, and entrenched racism.

Informative / Inspirational / Emotional / Melancholic / Challenging

- Grant by Ron Chernow highlights a lesser-known fact that Ulysses S. Grant was an exceptional horseman, even recognized for his skills at West Point, where he set a high jump record that stood for over 25 years.
- The book reveals that Grant, who struggled with financial stability post-presidency, authored his memoirs while battling terminal cancer, which turned out to be a critical success and provided financial security for his family.

**Ron Chernow**  
A biographer specializing in United States history, noted for his works on important American figures, including a celebrated biography that gained additional fame through a musical adaptation.  
  
**Ulysses S. Grant**  
A key Union general during the American Civil War who rose to become the 18th president of the United States, known for his civil rights achievements and corruption challenges during his administration.  

**Julia Dent (Grant)**  
The wife of Ulysses S. Grant who came from a Confederate-sympathizing family but supported the Union cause and was known for her social engagements as First Lady.

**John Aaron Rawlings**  
A close friend of Ulysses S. Grant who achieved the rank of major general in the Civil War and played a significant role in Grant's personal life.  

**Abraham Lincoln**  
The anti-slavery president whose election prompted Southern secession and who oversaw the Emancipation Proclamation and the conclusion of the Civil War before his assassination.  

**George B. McClellan**  
A Civil War general who initially rose to high command but was dismissed due to strategic disagreements with President Lincoln and mixed battle results.  

**William Tecumseh Sherman**  
A Union general known for his pioneering "total war" strategy and close collaboration with Ulysses S. Grant, and who later became Commanding General of the Army.  

**Robert E. Lee**  
The foremost Confederate general known for his leadership during the Civil War and his surrender to Grant at Appomattox Court House, marking the war's end.  

**Andrew Johnson**  
Lincoln's vice-president who became president after Lincoln's assassination, known for his lenient approach to Reconstruction and subsequent impeachment.  

**Rutherford B. Hayes**  
Succeeded Grant as president, known for the contested nature of his election and the subsequent end of federal Reconstruction in the South.  

**James Garfield**  
The 20th president who served a short term focused on civil service reform and Black rights before his assassination in 1881.  

**Chester A. Arthur**  
Garfield's vice-president who assumed the presidency, implementing civil service reforms and dealing with federal surplus issues during his term.

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