Abstracts Category : Other

Ulysses S. Grant : Reconstruction, Obstruction, and the Memory of the Eighteenth President

by Kevin P Simon

The presidential legacy of Ulysses S. Grant is consistently rated as one of the worst administrations in American history. This low standing stands in stark contrast to his accomplishments as the preeminent General of the Civil War. Significant work reassessing his military career has already taken place, but his presidency remains underexplored, and out of focus. A reassessment of Grant is warranted because a skewed perception of his presidency exists. Grant's political enemies as well as early historians, have had a disproportionate effect at determining this negative legacy. By examining his role in Reconstruction, and the role his enemies played in blocking his efforts, a more balanced picture of Grant emerges. Grant was committed to the rights of African Americans, but operated under significant limiting factors that could not be overcome. His legacy is tainted by calls of corruption by the very people who prevented the realization of a true egalitarian America. The memorialization of Grant, demonstrates the high esteem the public had for him, revealing today's distorted perspective. Using primary and secondary accounts of Grant's presidency, including the Papers of US Grant by John Y. Simon, relevant memoirs, and accounts, a more accurate picture of his record will be revealed. This work will prove that Grant's legacy is distorted and overdue for reassessment. "Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Arts in History."; Thesis advisor: Robert S. Wolff.; M.A.,Central Connecticut State University,,2017.;Advisors/Committee Members: Wolff, Robert S., 1966-.