“

It was my fortune, or misfortune, to be called to the office of Chief Executive without any previous political training. Eighth Annual Message

Eighth Annual Message

”

Legacy

President Johnson’s term was plagued by bitter disagreements about Reconstruction, and so Grant, as the widely celebrated Union general who helped end the Civil War, was easily elected as the people welcomed his promise of “Let us have peace.” Grant’s presidency was consumed with a series of scandals. Though he was well regarded as an honest man of stalwart personal character, he was unable to judge adequately the character of others and thus unfortunately appointed friends and relatives to government jobs, many of whom exploited their positions through bribery and theft. Massachusetts Senator Charles Sumner was a critic of Grant who told the Senate the country was suffering from “a dropsical nepotism swollen to elephantiasis.” Grant also was known to accept extravagant gifts from supporters.

Ultimately, Grant is best remembered for his role as Union general, rather than as an effective president. He did, however, serve two terms. Later in life, perhaps recognizing that his military experience was not adequate preparation for politics, he wrote, “I did not want the Presidency, and I have never quite forgiven myself for resigning the command of the army to accept it. . . . War and politics are so different.”