Grant
description Grant Overview
Ron Chernows 'Grant' is a monumental effort to rehabilitate the reputation of Ulysses S. Grant. Often remembered for the scandals of his presidency or his drinking, Grant is revealed here as a brilliant military strategist and a courageous champion of civil rights during Reconstruction. Chernows narrative is both gripping and deeply empathetic, correcting long-standing historical biases.
This biography is essential for understanding the complexities of the post-Civil War era and the personal integrity of a man who served his country with distinction in both war and peace.
info Grant Specifications
| Isbn | 978-1594204876 |
| Genre | Biography, American History |
| Title | Grant |
| Author | Ron Chernow |
| Awards | 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Biography (Finalist), 2018 Financial Times Business Book of the Year |
| Format | Hardcover, Paperback, E-book, Audiobook |
| Subject | Ulysses S. Grant, American Civil War, Reconstruction Era |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | Penguin Press |
| Page Count | 624 |
| Publication Year | 2017 |
balance Grant Pros & Cons
- Comprehensive 624-page biography covering Grant's entire life from birth to death with meticulous historical detail
- Balanced examination of Grant's military genius during the Civil War alongside analysis of his presidential scandals
- Excellent use of primary sources including Grant's personal letters and memoirs for authentic voice
- Accessible narrative style that makes complex Civil War history engaging for general readers
- Addresses and debunks common myths about Grant's drinking and alleged incompetence
- Sheds light on Grant's often-overlooked commitment to civil rights during Reconstruction
- Extremely long at 624 pages, which may be intimidating for casual readers or those seeking a shorter overview
- Dense historical detail in military sections may slow pace and lose readers not interested in strategy
- Some readers may find the book overly sympathetic in its effort to rehabilitate Grant's reputation
- Assumes baseline knowledge of Civil War history, potentially alienating newcomers to the period
- Certain sections covering political scandals can feel repetitive when addressing multiple controversies
help Grant FAQ
Is Ron Chernow's Grant worth reading for someone new to biographies?
Yes, Grant is highly accessible despite its length. Chernow's engaging writing style makes complex history compelling, and his balanced approach helps new readers understand both Grant's brilliance and flaws without requiring prior knowledge of the Civil War.
How does Grant compare to Chernow's other biographies like Hamilton or Washington?
Grant shares the same meticulous research and narrative strengths as Hamilton and Washington. It is similarly lengthy but focuses more on military strategy and civil rights rather than political founding, offering a different but equally compelling historical perspective.
Does Grant romanticize Ulysses S. Grant or present a critical view?
Chernow takes a largely sympathetic approach to rehabilitate Grant's reputation, but he doesn't ignore the scandals and failures. The biography acknowledges weaknesses while arguing that Grant's achievements and character have been unfairly overshadowed by posthumous criticism.
What awards has Ron Chernow's Grant received?
Grant was a finalist for the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Biography and won the 2018 Financial Times and McKinsey Business Book of the Year Award, recognizing its excellence in biographical writing and contribution to understanding American history.
How long does it take to read Grant by Ron Chernow?
At 624 pages, reading time varies significantly by reader. Average reading pace suggests 15-20 hours total. Casual readers may take 4-6 weeks reading a few chapters weekly, while avid readers might finish in 1-2 weeks.
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What is Grant best for?
History enthusiasts seeking a definitive, comprehensive biography of Ulysses S. Grant that balances military analysis with political scrutiny and personal depth.
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What are the key specifications of Grant?
- ISBN: 978-1594204876
- Genre: Biography, American History
- Title: Grant
- Author: Ron Chernow
- Awards: 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Biography (Finalist), 2018 Financial Times Business Book of the Year
- Format: Hardcover, Paperback, E-book, Audiobook
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