Grant (TV Notes)
Grant, a three-part documentary series released in 2020 on the History Channel, offers a deep and nuanced portrayal of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States and one of the most important military leaders of the American Civil War. Based on Ron Chernow’s bestselling biography Grant, the series blends reenactments, expert interviews, and historical analysis to examine both the triumphs and complexities of Grant's life.
The documentary covers Grant’s life chronologically, focusing on three major phases:
"Unlikely Hero" – This first part introduces Grant’s early life, including his humble beginnings in Ohio, his struggles at West Point, and his difficulties in civilian life after leaving the army following the Mexican-American War. This episode underscores how Grant’s resilience in the face of personal and professional failures set the stage for his later military success. It also examines his return to service at the outbreak of the Civil War, where he quickly rose through the ranks despite initial skepticism.
"Lincoln’s General" – The second episode centers on Grant’s Civil War leadership, highlighting his strategic brilliance in key battles such as Vicksburg and his relentless pursuit of victory despite the enormous human cost. The series draws attention to his partnership with President Abraham Lincoln, showcasing Grant as the military leader Lincoln needed to finally win the war. The brutal, grinding campaign against Robert E. Lee’s Confederate forces is depicted in detail, focusing on Grant's determination to keep pushing forward, even when faced with criticism for the high casualty rates.
"Freedom’s Champion" – The final part explores Grant’s post-war years, including his presidency. It delves into his efforts to rebuild the country during Reconstruction, protect the rights of freed African Americans, and combat the rising Ku Klux Klan. The series also covers the corruption scandals that marred his presidency, examining how his personal loyalty to friends and subordinates sometimes led to poor political decisions. Despite this, the episode portrays Grant as a steadfast advocate for civil rights and as a man who sought unity and healing for the divided nation.
Grant emphasizes the complexity of its central figure, portraying Ulysses S. Grant as more than just a war hero. The documentary explores his evolution from a struggling farmer and failed businessman to a brilliant military strategist and determined president. His story is one of persistence, shaped by both personal failure and incredible achievement.
The series also highlights Grant’s military genius, particularly his understanding of total war and his ability to adapt to changing circumstances on the battlefield. His Vicksburg campaign, often considered his greatest victory, is shown in detail, illustrating how he grasped the strategic importance of the Mississippi River in splitting the Confederacy in two.
At the same time, Grant does not shy away from his flaws. It acknowledges his struggles with alcoholism, his poor judgment in selecting advisors during his presidency, and the corruption scandals that clouded his administration. However, the series makes a strong case for his commitment to racial equality during Reconstruction, presenting him as a man ahead of his time in his efforts to protect the rights of formerly enslaved people.
The reenactments, featuring Justin Salinger as Ulysses S. Grant, are central to the series. They are visually compelling, adding a dramatic layer to the historical events being discussed. Salinger portrays Grant with a quiet intensity, capturing both his military confidence and personal humility. The battlefield scenes, particularly those depicting the Civil War’s harsh realities, are gritty and immersive, bringing the violence and stakes of the conflict to life.
The series is narrated by Jeff Daniels, whose steady voice lends authority and gravitas to the storytelling. Alongside the dramatizations are interviews with historians and scholars, including Ron Chernow himself, who offer insight into Grant's character, his military strategies, and his impact on American history. These expert analyses help to contextualize the events and provide a balanced view of Grant's legacy.
Grant excels in shedding light on a figure who is often overshadowed by other Civil War-era personalities like Abraham Lincoln or Robert E. Lee. It paints a fuller picture of Grant, showing him not only as a brilliant general but also as a flawed, yet progressive, president whose efforts during Reconstruction were ahead of his time.
SUMMARY: Grant is an ambitious and compelling documentary that brings the life of Ulysses S. Grant into sharper focus. It offers a balanced portrayal of a man who rose from obscurity to lead the Union Army to victory and later struggled with the challenges of the presidency during one of the most turbulent periods in American history. By highlighting both his military achievements and his moral courage during Reconstruction, the series repositions Grant as one of the most significant figures in American history. For anyone interested in the Civil War, U.S. presidential history, or the complexities of leadership during times of national crisis, Grant is a must-watch. It not only educates but also challenges viewers to reconsider the legacy of a leader whose contributions to the country have often been underestimated or misunderstood.
Get the Documentary Series: Digital Series (AppleTV)
Get the Book: Digital Book (Apple Books) | Audiobook (Apple Books)
Related Art: Grant Series
