Ulysses S. Grant (born Hiram Ulysses Grant; April 27; 1822 - July 23; 1885) was the 18th President of the United States (1869-77). As Commanding General of the United States Army (1864-69); Grant worked closely with President Abraham Lincoln to lead the Union Army to victory over the Confederacy in the American Civil War.

He implemented Congressional Reconstruction; often at odds with Lincoln's successor; Andrew Johnson. Twice elected president; Grant led the Republicans in their effort to remove the vestiges of Confederate nationalism and slavery; protect African-American citizenship; and support economic prosperity nationwide. His presidency has often come under criticism for protecting corrupt associates and in his second term leading the nation into a severe economic depression.