Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant · Chapter
Corpus Christi and the March to the Rio Grande explained
Grant describes the assembly of the Army of Occupation at Corpus Christi under General Zachary Taylor, the logistical challenges of moving troops and supplies, the procurement of mules and horses from Mexican smugglers, and the political co
What happens
Grant describes the assembly of the Army of Occupation at Corpus Christi under General Zachary Taylor, the logistical challenges of moving troops and supplies, the procurement of mules and horses from Mexican smugglers, and the political context of provoking a war with Mexico. He also recounts personal anecdotes, including a fall into the sea while boarding a steamer, and observations on the sparse settlements and hostile relations between Texans and Mexicans.
Themes in this chapter
The Horrors and Cost of War
Grant reflects on the political expediency of war, noting that obstructing a war is unpopular and that the defeated rebel may be honored more than the Northern traitor who conspires against his government.
Personal Integrity and Self-Reliance
Grant's anecdote about his fall into the sea and his ability to swim and recover without injury demonstrates self-reliance and a sense of humor about personal mishaps.
Slavery and Racial Justice
Grant mentions a settler with one female slave at Goliad, and the brutal massacres at the Alamo and Goliad that fueled Texan cruelty, implicitly touching on the racial and social tensions of the era.
Characters to notice
- Ulysses S. Grant
Narrator and participant; recounts his experiences as a young officer in the 4th Infantry during the assembly at Corpus Christi and the preparations for the move to the Rio Grande.
- Zachary Taylor
Commanding general of the Army of Occupation; Grant notes Taylor's command and the efficiency of his army in the early engagements of the Mexican-American War.
Key passages
“It was very doubtful whether Congress would declare war; but if Mexico should attack our troops, the Executive could announce, 'Whereas, war exists by the acts of, etc.,' and prosecute the contest with vigor.”
Congress might not vote for war, but if Mexico attacked first, the President could declare that a state of war already existed and pursue it aggressively.
Grant explains the political strategy behind provoking Mexico to initiate hostilities.
“Experience proves that the man who obstructs a war in which his nation is engaged, no matter whether right or wrong, occupies no enviable place in life or history.”
History shows that anyone who opposes a war their country is fighting, regardless of the war's merits, will not be remembered favorably.
Grant comments on the unpopularity of war opposition.
“Such is trade; such is war. The government paid in hard cash to the contractor the stipulated price.”
That's how commerce and conflict work: the government paid the contractor in cash, while the Mexican suppliers received little in return.
Grant reflects on the economic realities of war procurement.