"Ulysses S. Grant" by Walter Allen is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the life and military career of Ulysses S. Grant, highlighting his significant role in the American Civil War and his emergence as a national hero. It explores his character, background, military strategies, and ultimately, his presidency, providing an in-depth analysis of a complex figure in American history. At the start of the book, the author introduces Grant as a key figure in the national consciousness, comparable to iconic leaders like George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. The narrative opens with reflections on Grant's status as a military hero, particularly after his actions during the Civil War. It highlights the public's mixed feelings regarding his leadership and the contributions of other generals. The opening chapters also delve into Grant's ancestry, childhood, his early years in the military at West Point, and his initial endeavors, setting the stage for his military exploits and shaping the audience's understanding of the man behind the military legend. (This is an automatically generated summary.)