Presidential Biographies | Grant Administrations - Career

Career

Before the American Civil War (1861–65), Ulysses S. Grant's career can be described as halting. He served well, even with distinction during the Mexican War (1846–48), and was promoted to first lieutenant. A series of assignments to peacetime military posts did not appeal to him. Although promoted to captain while serving on the West Coast, Grant hated being apart from his family and fed his depression with alcohol. Grant recovered, resigned his commission, and returned to Missouri to support his family. Unfortunately, his military training left him poorly prepared to pursue farming. Before the outbreak of the Civil War, Grant had to swallow his pride, return to his father's store in Galena, Illinois, and work as a clerk.

The American Civil War

What made Grant famous and eventually led him to the presidency was the American Civil War. Never a...